Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
582. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether his Department is considering special considerations to the enhanced defective concrete block scheme such as 'side-by-side' building, to facilitate the most vulnerable homeowners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2378/25]
View answerThe Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 (the Act) was commenced on 22 June 2023. The Act provides for the current grant scheme, and related Regulations were adopted on 29 June 2023.
The scheme facilitates the remediation of existing houses that have been damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks. The construction of new separate additional houses is not grant funded.
The Act, as set down by the Oireachtas provides that exempt development status shall automatically apply to remediation works approved under the grant scheme subject to certain provisions set out in Section 28 of the Act. Importantly, remediation works shall only be exempt where on completion of remediation works the dwelling house is not inconsistent with or materially different from the appearance and character of the original dwelling house.
I understand that Minister O’ Brien wrote to the Chief Executive of Donegal County Council on 15 November, 2024 outlining the legislative constraints that prevent a separate home being built while the original one is retained, but committed to reviewing the legislative framework of the scheme to ensure it is fit for purpose and that if possible ensure rare and legitimate circumstances are addressed. I will progress this matter with my Department.
