Minister for Housing and Planning, Jan O’Sullivan, TD, has announced a €32m funding boost that will provide more than 260 new homes for those in need of housing.

€20m in funding will enable local authorities purchase 131 homes. These purchases will be completed this year and will address the specific special needs of families on waiting lists as well as providing additional mainstream housing.

€12.2m in funding will allow the acquisition of properties that will enable people with a disability to live independently in the community. These acquisitions have been prioritised by local authorities and will be completed by a range of approved housing bodies. 135 housing units will flow from this initiative.

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The €32m in funding arises from the Minister's efficient management of the Department's capital budget allocation for 2013 and also savings secured across some budget headings.

Speaking about the initiative Minister O'Sullivan said: "I am determined to get the best value for money from my Department's capital budget. Efficient management of resources has given rise to additional resources available this year. This funding will now be deployed to purchase an additional 260 homes for families and individuals with a housing need. There is a particular focus on assisting people with a physical or intellectual disability live independently."

(CD)