Johnny Mythen
Question:487. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to tackle dereliction and vacancy in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57211/25]
View answerTuesday, 21 October 2025
Questions (487)
Written answers
Addressing vacancy and dereliction is a key priority for Government.
The Vacant Homes Action Plan, published in January 2023, set out the various actions being taken to return vacant properties back into use as homes across the country, including Wexford. In March, I published the 2025 Progress Report which shows the significant progress that is being made and it is available on my Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/df86c-vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/.
One of the key measures in the Action Plan supporting the refurbishment of older, vacant and derelict buildings for housing is the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. The grant can provide up to €50,000 for the refurbishment of vacant properties for use as homes and up to €70,000 where the property is derelict.
To end of Q3 2025, in Wexford County Council, 525 applications for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant have been received, with 385 approvals and 117 grants paid, to a total value of €6.45 million.
The Programme for Government, "Securing Ireland’s Future", includes a range of commitments to continue our work in tackling vacancy and dereliction and supporting town centre living. These measures are currently being considered in the context of the forthcoming National Housing Plan.
I firmly believe that the commitment Government has made to addressing vacancy and dereliction and the actions taken will continue to play a vital role in delivering homes across the country.