Traveller accommodation
Local authority Traveller-specific accommodation and other supports for the Traveller community.
In this section
Traveller Accommodation Programmes
Every local authority has a Traveller Accommodation Programme (TAP), which aims to meet the existing and projected accommodation needs of Travellers in their areas, including providing Traveller accommodation in appropriate, suitable, and well-serviced areas.
Specific programmes and actions are developed following an assessment of Traveller housing needs and a community and stakeholder consultation process. The TAP is approved by the relevant Council and by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH).
Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committees (LTACC) have been established in all Local Authorities. The role of the LTACC is to provide a forum whereby Traveller accommodation issues can be addressed in a timely and co-ordinated manner and where decisions are reached through mutual consensus in as far as possible. Membership of the LTACC consists of Travellers, Traveller Development Groups, Elected Members and Local Authority staff.
Traveller accommodation
Local Authorities provide a range of accommodation options to the Traveller community, including Traveller specific accommodation such as group housing schemes and halting sites.
Travellers may also be provided with social housing support through local authority or AHB tenancies or through Housing Assistance Payment or the Rental Accommodation Scheme. Local authorities also provide emergency units of accommodation with specific supports to Traveller families facing homelessness.
Local Authorities employ Social Workers and Traveller Liaison Officers to work with and assist Travellers with their accommodation needs.
All applicants seeking social housing accommodation, including Traveller Specific Accommodation, are required to submit housing applications and relevant documents. Local authorities will consult with Traveller applicants regarding their accommodation needs and requirements to provide, where appropriate, Traveller specific accommodation.
Caravan purchase scheme
A pilot caravan purchase scheme is in operation in some local authorities to help with the cost of purchasing caravans. The maximum funding available under the pilot Caravan Loan Scheme is €30,000 per loan.