Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
675. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to list the Statutory Instruments, circulars or other guidance notes underpinning the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant since its introduction in 2022 to date; and if this Deputy will be provided with copies of each. [39046/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, funded under the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, was introduced on an administrative basis, as a pathfinder scheme in 2022. Since its introduction, the grant scheme has been a key measure in addressing vacancy and dereliction across the country. At end of Quarter 1, 2026 over 17,480 applications had been made to local authorities, with over 13,170 of those applications approved and 5,300 grant paid amounting to almost €285 million of grant funding paid out across the county.
The Grant provides up to €50,000 for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent. A top-up grant of up to €20,000 is available where the property is derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000.
All published grant documents can be found at the link here: Bring a Vacant or Derelict Property Back into Use, www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/campaigns/bring-a-vacant-or-derelict-property-back-into-use/ which includes scheme outlines, application forms and frequently asked questions. The grant is delivered by local authorities who assess and decide on applications and issue grant payments. Support is provided to local authorities in their administration of the grant by the Vacant Homes Unit in my Department and by the Property Optimisation Unit in the Housing Agency.
My Department will forward Circulars issued on the grant directly to the Deputy.
