Disinterest from Housing Minister on Housing Adaptation Grants deeply concerning
Disinterest from Housing Minister on Housing Adaptation Grants deeply concerning - The Labour Party
Labour’s George Lawlor TD has expressed his concern at the apparent lack of interest shown by the Housing Minister on the massive backlog on Housing Adaptation Grants.
Under questioning from Deputy Lawlor in the Dáil, the Minister appeared indifferent to the plight of those who need adaptations to their house.
Deputy Lawlor said:
“Every day I’m inundated with distressing stories from people in Wexford who badly need home upgrades. From diplaidated windows and doors to outdated heating systems, to the need for downstairs access and wet rooms to keep people in their own home, these are urgent necessities to enable people to age in place.
“Yet when raised with the Minister, he barely acknowledged the question before sitting down and moving on.
“We need to see a major increase in the Housing Adaptation Grant Scheme. Right now, the maximum amount available to older people and people with a disability under the scheme is €40,000. Yet in today’s day and age, it would be next to impossible to get any necessary work done for under €60,000.
“Bathroom extensions and adaptations are costing people approximately €40,000 to €50,000, while recent quotes for a bedroom and bathroom coming in at €60,000 to €70,000.
“From speaking to people in Wexford and across the country, it seems that while Councils are taking applications, it is taking months, and in some cases years, for any action on it.
“With construction costs soaring and inflation rising, it’s unacceptable for the Minister to neglect to address the affordability of adapting homes for older people and those with disabilities.
“Housing adaptation Grants are not ‘lifestyle choice’. They are a basic necessity for older people and those with disabilities. The Government’s neglect is hindering their ability to stay in their own home. It’s time for action. Government must immediately increase funding for the Housing Adaptation Grant Scheme to ensure the dignity and independence of our most vulnerable citizens.”