An urgent call for the establishment of a web based social housing support portal has been stressed by Cllr. Aengus O’Rourke.
The Leas Cathaoirleach was speaking at the monthly meeting of Westmeath County Council as he sought the support of his fellow elected representatives with regard to the initiative.
“Presently, the amount of paperwork which needs to be completed regarding an application for social housing continues to grow. With various reports and utility bills required from each relevant applicant it is creating an amount of work which most certainly would be alleviated should a web based system be devised,” Cllr. O’Rourke remarked.
In this modern era, the Athlone businessman firmly believes that an online route for applicants is the manner in which to proceed.
“All applicants would be equipped with their own unique log in pin number which would enable them to keep up with relevant applications for social housing, make rental payments and check correspondence from the local authority. This, in turn, would free up staff which are much needed to liaise on a more regular basis with those who are experiencing social housing issues,” the Councillor continued.
Requiring significant investment, Cllr. O’Rourke was informed by the County Council administration that the local Government Management Agency were committed to providing such a service but that it would take time for the initiative to come to fruition.
Welcoming the news, Cllr. O’Rourke expressed his desire to see the online portal service “expedited” so as to address the ongoing social housing issues.
