Local Authorities
Dail Éireann — 2026-01-22
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Ruairí Ó Murchú (SF), Louth

We all welcome any increase in the amount of money people can get. We all know that construction costs have gone through the roof. However, are they fit for purpose as regards the figures as they exist at the minute? No, they are not. Work needs to be done for those who have severe mobility issues, for example a child who gets older and has more specific needs. There needs to be a review not only of the adaptation grants provided but also in relation to housing. I know of people whose adaptation grants have been approved, but technically they cannot actually deliver it because they do not have the space within the confines of the house. I know of people who need to change their house on the basis of their children's needs. It would be a lot easier if they were actually in social housing. They may have bought a house from the local authority at one stage before these circumstances arose and now they are under pressure with clawback they have to give back. They will not be able to afford the type of house that is required for the child. The whole thing needs to be reviewed. It does not just fall on the Department of housing. The HSE also needs to do a piece of work.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-01-22/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:32+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-01-22