A €4.6 million contract to build a 34-house scheme at Mullagh Road, Miltown Malbay, has been signed by Clare County Council and Nenagh-based firm Multeen Developments.

"This represents a major investment in North Clare not least because of the slow down in the Irish economy, but also because it will provide 34 houses to people in need of social housing," said Mayor of Clare, Councillor Madeleine Taylor-Quinn.

Speaking at the signing of the contract, Ms Taylor-Quinn said: "This is a very welcome investment in terms of creating employment, boosting supplies and addressing the deficiencies in housing supply.

"At a time when the construction industry is slowing down, it is heartening to see that the Council can continue to provide quality homes for the elderly and other vulnerable people.

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"The council's total expenditure on housing supply and improvement works to this year will amount to €27.5m and this will enable several hundred people to benefit from an improved quality of life.

"Schemes will be completed in Scarriff, Corofin, Killaloe, Ballynacally and Clarecastle this year and this will bring the total number of completions to 114," added the Mayor.

The scheme at Miltown Malbay consists of two, three and four-bed houses and is located close to schools, shops, recreational and business facilities.

The scheme, which is funded by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, will cost €4.6m

Councillor Joe Arkins, Cathaoirleach of the Strategic Policy Committee for Housing, welcomed the signing of the contract and wished the developers every success.

Councillor Arkins referred to the range of housing options available from Clare County Council, including Affordable Housing, the Rental Accommodation scheme, Remedial Works scheme, Loans, Voluntary Housing, Housing grants and Improvement Works in lieu of Housing.

The councillor said: "The council has met the Minister with a view to increasing the allocation for the Housing grants and we are hopeful that increased financial resources will be made available for the remainder of the year.

"So far this year, the Council has approved a total of 235 grants - 124 of which relate to people with disabilities. It is imperative that people with special needs, including the elderly, are cared for."

(PR/JM)