Efficiency concerns prompt funding call for Housing Aid Scheme for Leitrim's elderly

Concerns have been raised during September's Ballinamore municipal district meeting regarding the efficiency of the Housing Aid for Older People Grant Scheme.

Fine Gael councillor Ita Reynolds-Flynn asked Ballinamore M.D. for an update on the grants available for new windows and doors for vulnerable and older persons.

The Housing Aid for Older People Grant Scheme is for essential repairs to improve the conditions of an older person’s home.

These essential repairs can include repairing or replacing the roof, updating the electrical wiring, repairing or replacing windows and doors and provision of central heating.

“What we really need is more funding,” Cllr Reynolds-Flynn said.

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 “It seems only one door and one window are being replaced, and I would like that there would be more money spent on this so people could do their full house.

“I just feel for the older persons - especially now when we’re on the green agenda, the Scheme should be what it says, replacing windows and doors. 

“There should be more funding for that,” Cllr Reynolds-Flynn added.

A reply from the Director of Services, Housing and Community, Corporate Services, Cultural and Emergency Services stated that in assessing applications for the scheme, essential works to make the property habitable are prioritised, other works such as the replacement of windows and doors are considered on a case by case basis.

Applicants seeking grant aid must be 66 years of age or older. The grant is means-tested and the maximum grant available is €8,000 to cover 95 percent of costs, for incomes under €30,000.

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