Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on Government to increase funding for grants to adapt homes for older people, or those with disabilities or chronic illnesses. The Councillor made the call are waiting lists for adaption works persist for applicants in both private and social houses.
McGuinness said:
“The current waiting times for an adaptions grant to come through are too long, and are causing real hardship for individuals and families.
“Waterford Council administers two grant schemes – one for privately owned homes and another for council houses. Both are funded by central Government and waiting lists apply for both schemes.
“Adaptions can include installation of a stair lift or a walk-in shower, or in some cases can involve constructing a downstairs bedroom or a wet room.
“Not only do delays cause hardship for people with difficulty moving around or using parts of their own home, but I am aware of several situations where applicants have been unable to leave hospital while awaiting adaption works. Not only does this lead to strain on them and their families, but it also has an impact on health service capacity.
“Government funding for these schemes has not kept up with construction inflation nor has it taken into account the increasing demand Waterford.
“I am calling on Government to urgently increase its allocations for Waterford and to give the council a much needed cash injection to clear the waiting list.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 