THE Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government with special responsibility for Housing and Planning, Jan O’Sullivan, officially cut the red tape on a new development at Avondale Court in Mulhuddart last week.
The minister was at the launch of HAIL’s (Housing Association for Integrated Living) 2013 Annual Report as she formally declared the new development open.
Minister O’Sullivan said HAIL was doing tremendous work in addressing the housing needs of people, particularly people with mental disabilities.
“HAIL’s 2013 Annual Report clearly demonstrates the contribution it is making to the lives of many people and the role it has in fostering thriving, sustainable communities,
? Ms O’Sullivan said.
HAIL’s Executive Director Patricia Cleary said they had been in existence for nearly 30 years.
“During that time HAIL has developed into an organisation with a reputation for high quality governance, high quality housing and high quality support to its tenants and clients, primarily those with mental health difficulties.
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She added that Avondale Court was a typical housing led project by HAIL.
“It is an example of best practice partnership working between the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, Fingal County Council the National Association of Building Co-Operatives and HAIL,
? she stated.
“It won an award for HAIL from the Irish Council for Social Housing for housing for people with a disability.
“HAIL’s philosophy is to house people in mainstream housing in ordinary communities. This development brings together tenants of different household types and different cultural backgrounds.
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HAIL is a participant in the Homeless Network and in partnership with the Dublin Region Homeless Executive delivers homeless prevention and tenancy sustainment measures to tenants and those in other forms of tenure.
In collaboration with HSE Mental Health Rehabilitation teams, HAIL sources accommodation and supports the settlement and tenancy sustainment of individuals moving from HSE mental health hostels into ordinary housing in ordinary communities.
Minister O’Sullivan went on to say that HAIL’s vision of a society where people, primarily those with mental health difficulties, can achieve and sustain independent living in the community was fully endorsed by the Government.
“My department constantly strives to achieve this objective for all members for our society,
? she said.
“Having secure, quality, affordable accommodation with appropriate support services can transform people’s lives.
“I look forward to working with HAIL over the coming years to ensure that more people can benefit from their philosophy and practical approach.
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