asked the Minister for the Environment the reason house loans are not paid to single people in respect of secondhand houses.

The restriction on the making of loans by a local authority for previously occupied houses does not relate to the marital status of applicants. Loans for previously occupied houses are normally advanced only to persons whose circumstances would otherwise necessitate their being rehoused by the local authority. The restriction is designed to conserve, as far as possible, for new houses the limited capital available for the making of loans by local authorities.

Will the Minister have another look at this? It seems most unfair that a person should be militated against in respect of a secondhand house. I do not accept that this clause should pertain.

I understand the Deputy's concern and assure him I will examine it.