The Government has finally commenced the revised scheme for the many victims of the defective blocks scandal. This time last year, the affected homeowners told the Taoiseach that the legislation underpinning this scheme was seriously deficient and that many families would be left behind as a result. The Taoiseach did not listen. At that time, we in Sinn Féin, and indeed Members across the Opposition, submitted 80 amendments on behalf of homeowners. The Government rejected every single one of them, pleading at the time that this was urgent, that we needed to move on and that we had no time to consider these amendments. Yet, here we are one year on, and another year has been wasted for these devastated families.

Next Thursday, the homeowners’ representatives from counties Donegal, Mayo and Clare will be before the housing committee. They will spell out the changes that need to be made to this legislation and to the scheme. Will the Taoiseach finally listen to them and act on their demands for justice and fairness?

Before I respond, I want to welcome two visitor groups to the Gallery. Visitors from the Deise Women's Shed are here from Dungarvan as guests of Senator Cummins. They are all very welcome. Also, visitors from the Portlaoise Active Retirement Group are here as guests of the Minister of State, Deputy Fleming. It is great to have them all in the Chamber this morning. I hope we did not disappoint.

In relation to the Deputy’s question, I understand the impact mica is having on people in Donegal. It does not just impact their homes, but their families and mental health. I have visited many times, have met groups and have been in the houses. The main thing we want from Government is to have this new scheme up and running. There will always be people who will have suggestions to how it can be changed or how it can be improved. We are not going to dismiss them, but the most important thing now is to have this scheme up and running. It has been going on for far too long and I know the Deputy will agree with that. I want to see not dozens but hundreds of houses under repair and reconstruction next year. That is what we expect to see. We want this scheme up and running. We want to see repairs, demolitions, restorations and rebuilding happening as soon as possible.