Minister for Housing, James Browne, has confirmed when speaking to Nova News, that more than €23 million in government funding has been approved to help improve existing social housing across the country.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has announced the funding will be used by local authorities to carry out essential adaptations, extensions, and upgrades to homes — particularly for older tenants, people with disabilities, and families living in overcrowded conditions.
The investment will go towards the Disabled Persons Grant scheme, which funds home modifications such as stair-lifts, ramps, grab rails, and wet rooms. It also covers larger projects, including building extensions to reduce overcrowding or creating accessible spaces like downstairs bedrooms and en-suites.
In addition, the Improvement Works in Lieu scheme will be supported, allowing approved social housing applicants to receive funding for works on a privately owned home instead of being offered a social housing unit.
Minister Browne, said the funding will make a meaningful difference to people’s lives:
“This funding will significantly improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with accessibility requirements. This scheme also clearly demonstrates this Government’s commitment to enabling older and disabled people to continue to live independently.”
Under both schemes, 90% of the costs are covered by exchequer funding, with the remaining 10% provided by local authorities. Both initiatives are administered directly by local councils.
The funding takes effect from Monday, 9 June
