Labour TD Michael McCarthy has welcomed an announcement by Minister for Housing and Planning Jan O'Sullivan of a €32m boost to provide more than 260 new homes for those in need of housing.

The West Cork Times revealed Mr McCarthy's comments.

He said: "I particularly welcome the news that the funding is targeted at families on the waiting list and people with special needs.

"An extra €20m in funding will enable local authorities purchase over 131 homes. There will a particular focus on assisting people with a physical or intellectual disability to live independently as an additional €12.2m in funding will allow for the purchase 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. A total of 135 housing units will flow from this initiative."

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The West Cork Times quoted Mr McCarthy as saying: "The €32m funding boost comes from Minister O'Sullivan's effective and efficient management of her department's capital budget allocation for 2013. Minister O'Sullivan has shown her determination to get the best value for money proving that savings can be made and used for the benefit of those most in need, producing positive results for communities and families alike.

"I particularly welcome that, as part of this funding boost, Cork County Council will be allocated an extra €1 million which will enable them to provide additional homes to those currently on the housing list."

(IT/JP)