COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN/PALMERSTOWN/FONTHILL AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Question NO. 13

MOTION: Councillor P. Gogarty

That the Chief Executive reports on plans to provide step down housing for social and private residents of Palmerstown, North Clondalkin and Lucan close to amenities within their existing communities, so as to provide them with smaller and more manageable accommodation while freeing up larger homes for growing families, as well as looking at other innovative solutions such as sub-dividing for single residents or liaising with companies such as thehomeshare.ie to enable older citizens who want company or some extra help at home to be matched up with younger students and workers who are in need of affordable accommodation.

 

REPORT:

Tenants of South Dublin County Council can apply to transfer to small accommodation suitable to their housing need which can free up larger homes for allocations to families.  This is included in the Scheme of Allocations. 

Information on the Home Share Ireland initiative is available at:  homeshareireland.ie.   This allows homeowners to remain in their home with support.  The person moving in (home sharer) provide companionship, an overnight presence (minimum of 5 nights per week) and up to 10 hours of practical help per week.  No money changes hand between the owner and the ‘companion’.  There is a fee paid to the company.  This can also give families peace of mind and cover during the week nights.  This would suit certain homeowners and those willing to provide support and share the house.  Selection, suitability, vetting etc. is a matter for the company.  This is strictly an “agreement” between the company, the homeowner and the house sharer. 

There are plans to provide a small number of step down housing units for older persons in the Palmerstown Area.  The Council continues to explore opportunities for this type of accommodation in North Clondalkin and Lucan.