Mica and defective blocks
Deputy McConalogue raised the expert panel report on mica and defective blocks in homes in Donegal and Mayo and asked about the Government’s response. The Taoiseach had not yet seen the report but said the relevant Minister would contact the Deputy.
The Taoiseach will be aware that the expert panel on mica reported in the last couple of weeks. Its report indicated that between 1,000 and 5,000 homes in Donegal are affected by defective blocks as a result of high mica content and that 700 homes in Mayo are affected by defective blocks as a result of pyrite content.
Unfortunately, at all stages over the past three or four years the Government dragged its feet in addressing this issue. It is welcome that the report has been published. What is the Taoiseach's view on the recommendations of the report? Could he outline the steps the Government plans to take next? Could the Taoiseach give a commitment that we will proceed immediately to putting in place a redress scheme for affected homeowners? Will the Government accept a proposal to have a debate in this House on the expert panel report?