asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the long delays in the payment of new house grants and house improvement grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Generally, I am not aware of undue delays in the payment of housing grants. However, given the volume of grant payments being made — for example, nearly 7,500 grant and mortgage subsidy payments were made in September — it is inevitable that delays beyond the normal may, from time to time, arise in individual cases. If the Deputy has any particular instances in mind I will arrange to look into the position.

68.

asked the Minister for the Environment the reason for the delay in payment of a new house grant to a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and when payment will issue.

There has been no undue delay; the grant will be paid as soon as possible.

69.

asked the Minister for the Environment if a person (details supplied) in County Waterford has applied for a new house grant; and if same will be paid on completion of work.

There is no record of the receipt of an application for a new house grant from the person named at the address given.

70.

asked the Minister for the Environment when payment of a house improvement grant will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Waterford.

An inspection will be carried out as soon as possible with a view to payment of the grant.

71.

asked the Minister for the Environment when payment of a house improvement grant will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Clare.

The grant has been paid.