Review of defective concrete blocks scheme
Keira Keogh seeks an urgent review of the defective concrete blocks scheme, including coverage for affected foundations and homeowners wishing to sell; the Taoiseach promises a timely review and will provide its schedule.
I welcome the planned review of the defective concrete blocks scheme mentioned in the programme for Government. When should this review be expected? Urgent changes are needed for those affected. I can think of a retired couple who are now in ill health who cannot cope with the toll of a rebuild and wish to sell with the grant intact, or people in Páirc na Coille, Westport, whose foundations are not currently covered and who are anxious to see if this might happen after the review. The physical, emotional and mental strain of this crisis cannot be underestimated and financial uncertainty just adds to this burden.
I also want to highlight the 1,644 homeowners who, on the previous scheme, commenced their rebuilds on the old rate. They have been assured they will receive the new rate retrospectively but this requires the Act to be changed. I know this is going before Cabinet soon but when will this come before the Oireachtas so they can move out of financial limbo?
