684. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider allowing micro-companies to apply for the vacant above-the-shop grant scheme; and the timeline for the potential inclusion of micro-companies in the scheme. [64554/26]

Addressing vacancy and dereliction is a key priority for this Government, as reflected in the Housing Plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities. The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, funded under the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, has been a key measure in addressing vacancy and dereliction across the country. To the end of Q2 2026, over 18,800 applications have been received, over 14,300 approved, with more than 6,300 grants paid out following completion of works, totalling almost €349 million.

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.

Under the Housing Plan, a commitment was given to provide additional support for the refurbishment and conversion of above the shop vacant space for use as homes. The Vacant Above the Shop Grant was launched in April 2026, with a package of up to €140,000 being made available where vacant above the shop space is being converted/refurbished for residential use and the commercial element is remaining. The additional grant amount for these properties recognises the complexities involved in bringing this space into use. The package includes an Expert Advice Grant of up to €5,000. Information on the Grants available from each local authority and at the following link: www.gov.ie/vacancy.

Delivering Homes, Building Communities includes a commitment to explore an extension of the Vacant Above the Shop Grant to micro companies and this work is currently underway. It is anticipated that this work will be completed by the end of the year / quarter one of 2027.

The grant is kept under ongoing review and any proposed changes to the scheme will be communicated in a timely manner and would be effective from a future date without transitional measures.