Wexford woman eligible for HAP but sharing box room with 11-year-old son

The merits of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme were called into question at the October meeting of the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD) after it was revealed that over 1,600 in Co Wexford are currently eligible for it. Addressing housing officer, Sharon Ryan, Councillor Jim Codd said many of those who qualified for HAP were unable to avail of the payment due to rising rents.

"I'd like to know where those people are living. The reality is there's next to no houses to rent, so where are they?" he asked. "I was contacted by a lady who's currently sharing a bed with her 11-year-old son, they're living in her parents' house. She's entitled to HAP but she can't afford to rent."