Nearly €200,000 for Leitrim's social housing stock

Leitrim will receive nearly €200,000 for the improvement of social housing in the country, it was revealed this week. 

Under the Disabled Persons Grant and the Improvement Works in Lieu scheme, Leitrim County Council will receive €193,167 (€173,850 Department contribution and €19,317 local contribution) while Sligo County Council has an allocation of €703,497 (€633,147 from the Department and €70,350 from the Council).

“This represents a significant investment in ensuring that people with disabilities, older persons, and families facing overcrowding can live in homes that meet their needs,” Minister Harkin said, “This is a real and practical investment in the quality of life for people across Sligo and Leitrim. These grants will help older people and those with disabilities remain living independently in their homes and communities. They also address the pressing issue of overcrowding by supporting home extensions where necessary. I commend the Department and local authorities for their strong commitment to inclusive and supportive housing.”

The Disabled Persons Grant enables local authorities to undertake adaptations and improvements such as installation of stair-lifts, ramps, and grab rails, construction of downstairs bedrooms, wet rooms, or en-suites, and extensions to relieve overcrowding.

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The Improvement Works in Lieu scheme allows similar work to be carried out on privately owned properties where the applicant qualifies for social housing.

The funding covers 90% of the cost from the exchequer, with the remaining 10% provided by local authorities.

Minister Harkin added:

“This funding is not just about physical modifications. It’s about dignity, independence, and it is also a smart, community-based approach to housing, reducing pressure on emergency accommodation and new builds.”

Meanwhile, Sligo-Leitrim Fine Gael TD, Frank Feighan said the funds will help address the needs of older people, people with a disability and overcrowding. “I am delighted to see that €633,147 has been allocated for Sligo and a further €173,850 for Leitrim Co Council. This funding will help improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities.

“It will also help tackle overcrowding in social housing and offer an alternative for those currently living in overcrowded private accommodation. 

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“This Disabled Persons Grant ensures homes are adapted to allow older people and those with disabilities to continue living independently, while also addressing overcrowding. “This scheme funds essential home modifications for people with mobility or disability needs. These include minor adaptations like stair-lifts, ramps, and grab rails, larger projects such as extensions to reduce overcrowding as well as creating accessible spaces like a downstairs bedroom, en-suite, or wet-room.

“These grants are so important for meeting the needs of local authority tenants and those awaiting social housing in Leitrim and play a key role in enabling people with disabilities to continue living autonomously. “Fine Gael is committed to enabling older and disabled people to continue to live independently”, concluded Deputy Feighan.