Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 January 2026
156. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason the rates per square metre under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme have not been reviewed since the introduction of the enhanced scheme in 2023, despite significant construction cost inflation; if he will commit to an immediate review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4664/26]
View answerThe Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 (the Act) commenced on 22 June 2023 which contains the current grant scheme and the related Regulations were adopted on 29 June 2023.
Following updated cost reports from the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland in 2024 and advice from the Expert Group established to consider the matter, a further increase from the original grant rates set down in the 2023 Regulations, was provided for on 7 November 2024 (S.I. 621 of 2024).
My Department keeps the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme under continuous review through consistent and regular stakeholder engagement.
Costs relating to the scheme are closely monitored and the matter of any future changes to the scheme cap and rates will be kept under consideration.
