HAP payment plan for eviction
Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú described a woman facing eviction after domestic violence because she could not get a HAP payment plan for arrears. The Taoiseach said he could comment on policy but not adjudicate individual applications, and the Ceann Comhairle told the Deputy to take it to the Minister.
I raise the case of a lady facing eviction and homelessness. She dealt with a dreadful circumstance of suffering terrible domestic violence. This created a situation where arrears arose in respect of her HAP tenancy. Payment of approximately €3,000 is being sought straight away. I raised this issue with the Taoiseach and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy Darragh O'Brien.
I was told that it is with the HAP officials in the local authority. The local authority says it has no wriggle room. HAP officials stated they are not offering payment plans. Since I received an official response, HAP officials have been back in touch with the lady but we still do not have a solution. At present, we are looking at applying for an additional needs payment. It would be absolute madness that one part of the Government would pay for another part. It is absolutely crazy.
Comment on this
Two matters have been raised involving individual applications to State services. I can certainly comment on policy frameworks but I am not clear that I can arbitrate without having any details.
Comment on this
People cannot get the payment plan and that will put them into homelessness.