asked the Minister for the Environment the number of application forms issued for increased home improvement grants; the number of applications received; the estimated expenditure in 1986; the number of inspectors employed; and the average length of time for approval of applications.

34.

asked the Minister for the Environment the number of applications for increased home improvement grants which have been lodged with his Department and the special arrangements, if any, being made for inspections.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 34 together.

About 100,000 application forms have been issued so far and a total of 10,000 applications had been received up to and including 6 December. The number of inspectors employed is 64, some of whom are also engaged on inspections of new houses. The estimated expenditure in 1986 will be published shortly in the Book of Estimates. In view of the short period the scheme is in operation, it is not possible to give any proper indication of the average length of time for approval of applications.

Will the Minister state——

The Minister should make sure the houses are inspected before the election.

That is two years away.

Interruptions are out of order. Supplementary questions on this question are grossly disorderly from any Deputy other than Deputy Nolan.

Will the Minister state what financial provisions the Government have made for the payment of house improvement grants for 1986? On the basis of the tentative figures by various commentators it is estimated that the Department may accept some 50,000 applications. On the basis that the maximum grant is £8,500, and taking a round figure of between £1,000 and £3,000 per grant approval, this would give a figure of from £50 million to £150 million. What provision have the Government made in their Estimates for this sum?

The Book of Estimates will be published shortly and provision will be indicated in respect of the matter raised by the Deputy. It is clear that the number of applications received is an indication of the demand in the private housing sector for home improvements. When the grants are added to the moneys invested by the private sector, this will generate considerable activity in the private sector where it is needed. It is not possible at this stage to say precisely what amounts will be required or have been allocated. The Deputy may be assured that this successful scheme, which has been welcomed by all sides, will be responded to by the Government.

Is the Minister satisfied that 64 inspectors throughout the country will be able to carry out the house inspections necessary as a result of the applications? Further, will he confirm that in the event of undue delays he will provide extra staff in the Department? Where does he propose to get the extra staff if they are required?

The Deputy is anticipating problems that have not yet arisen. If we require extra staff there is a range of options open to the Department of the Environment within their current allocation of staff. I know the Minister is committed to the success of the scheme which has been so warmly welcomed by the public. It is his clear intention, as it is that of the Government, to ensure there are no unnecessary delays. I cannot give answers in respect of problems that have not yet arisen.

There are not enough inspectors for the old scheme.

What are the Minister's proposals if there are undue delays?

To remove the delays.

More staff will have to be employed.

Questions for oral answer that have not been reached will be sent for written reply.