Over €56m is to be spent on housing adaptations for older people and those with a disability.

It will allow extensions on private houses to be built for people with a disability.

It will also help with mobility alterations such as stair lifts and access ramps.

The funding represents an increase of almost €6m on the 2016 expenditure.

Speaking on the announcement Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly said the finding should allow those eligible for it to “continue independent living”.

“These grants provide older people and people with a disability the opportunity to continue independent living in their own homes for as long as possible, with the comfort and dignity that they deserve,” said Kelly.

“I am particularly pleased that we have made available a significant increase in funding for 2016 for this important programme. The grants that are made available, whether large or small, can greatly improve the quality of life of people with a disability or who are reaching an age in life when they are less mobile”.

You can read full details of the funding announcement here.