Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan/Monaghan, Brendan Smith has secured a commitment from the Minister for Housing that as part of the broader social housing agenda a review of the income eligibility limits for social housing will be completed.

The Deputy received confirmation through a recent tabled Parliamentary Question in which he asked the Minister for an update on a review of income eligibility limits for social housing.

Deputy Smith commented, “Over the past 2 years income eligibility limits for social housing have become unrealistic.

“I have consistently highlighted the cases of many applicants on low incomes, who were not deemed eligible, because they were over the income threshold and who at the same time had no chance whatsoever of obtaining a mortgage or a bank loan to purchase a home.

“There is a critical need to improve income eligibility limits for social housing, particularly in counties such as Cavan and Monaghan where the local rental cost of housing accommodation has risen.
“Understandably, the Department must direct resources to those most in need of social housing support however, there are more and more families unable to meet household needs and increasing rent and who, because of current criteria, do not qualify for social housing.

“I am relieved to learn that the Minister has committed to complete a review of the income eligibility limits for social housing supports, the results of which are to be available for publication during 2018.

He concluded, “It’s my full intention to ensure that the Minister fulfils this commitment and that working families struggling to meet the cost of accommodation can seek appropriate supports.”