Defective apartments fire safety
Patrick Costello said residents affected by defective apartments still lacked clarity on interim fire safety supports and remedial works. The Minister of State said the Department was finalising measures and legislation and would try to expedite them.
Once again, the Not Our Fault campaign is outside these Houses asking for help to address the immediate fire safety issues in people's homes. While commitments have been made, we still have no clarity as to when substantive measures to help with defective apartments or even when interim supports to address immediate fire safety needs will be in place. I raised this issue in this Chamber previously and we still do not have clear, direct answers. We do not have a date for when these people will be able to be supported to make the repairs and remedial works to their homes that are needed for their safety. Once again, when will these households get the supports they need to make their homes safe?
Comment on this
As the Deputy is aware, we are looking in the Department to ensure that where people have particular issues in terms of fire safety within the buildings, works can take place and that they will be compensated for works that are done. That work is currently being finalised by the Department. As the Deputy is aware, there is legislation to follow as well. It is a matter I will take up with the officials and look for it to be expedited.