Housing Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 May 2023

Thursday, 18 May 2023

Questions (174)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

174. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to this Deputy's question on Questions on Policy and Promised Legislation on 11 May 2023, if he will consider expanding the €800 pledged accommodation scheme for Ukrainian refugees so that it would cover further cohorts of people in desperate need of accommodation, such as people currently classified as homeless; if he will also reconsider the rate paid and consider bringing the terms and conditions in line with the rent a room scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23599/23]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage (Deputy Darragh O'Brien)

Housing for All - a New Housing Plan for Ireland is the government’s housing policy to 2030. It is a multi-annual, multibillion euro plan which will improve Ireland’s housing system and deliver more homes of all types for people with different housing needs, including the most vulnerable in our society. The Government recently agreed to extend the Rent-a-Room Relief Scheme to local authority tenancies and I have captured this as a supplementary action in Housing for All.

The Rent-a-Room Relief scheme allows a householder to earn up to €14,000 per year tax-free by renting out a room (or rooms) in their home. Extending the scheme to local authorities, and permitting social housing tenants rent out a vacant room or rooms in their homes for the same amount tax-free, will help secure additional accommodation and housing amidst growing pressures in the private rental sector.

The specific details of the scheme for social housing tenancies are currently being considered by my Department. This includes addressing the range of complex practical, operational, and legal matters arising, such as managing social housing waiting lists, amending tenancy agreements, reviewing and amending rent schemes, and local authority approval arrangements.

Question No. 175 answered with Question No. 114.