€3.2 million announced for Mayo housing adaptation grants

An allocation of €3,233,916 has been made to Mayo County Council for home adaptation grants for older people and those living with disability and mobility issues.

The grants are 80% exchequer funded through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with 20% funding from the local authority.

Welcoming the allocation announced for Mayo County Council, Deputy Alan Dillon said: “These grants are important as they help our older citizens and those with disabilities and mobility issues in Co. Mayo to remain living independently in their own homes for longer should they wish and will also facilitate early return from hospital.”

He explained how grants of up to €30,000 are available to help people with a disability in carrying out works required to make a house more suitable for their needs, up to €8,000 to assist older people to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out, and up to €6,000 for mobility aids.

Deputy Dara Calleary said Mayo County Council has been allocated just short of €2.6 million from the department for this year's scheme, with a further €646,783 from the local authority, giving a total budget of €3,233,916 for 2021.

“I am delighted with this significant funding for Mayo County Council which will be used to assist people with a disability in carrying out necessary works to make a house more suitable for their needs, and to assist older people to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out at their home.

"As well as greatly assisting homeowners to make such improvements, another significant aspect of this scheme is that it provides a very welcome boost boost to local economies, creating employment opportunities for local contractors. While the current shutdown in construction activity remains in place, it is very important that people are aware that housing adaptation works can continue with the consent of the homeowner and once public health guidelines are adhered to.”

Added Deputy Calleary: "I want to pay tribute to the municipal areas within Mayo County Council who have gained a national reputation for the very efficient manner in which they administer these schemes.

“Anyone interested in applying for the schemes are most welcome to contact me on (096) 77613 to discuss the issue and I will arrange for an application form to be sent to them."