715. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the progress to date on the apartment and duplex remediation scheme and the associated legislation; whether all required regulations, guidance and operational arrangements have been finalised; the expected commencement date of the scheme; and when affected owners' management companies and apartment owners can expect to access the scheme. [64995/26]

The Interim Remediation Scheme ('Scheme') has been in place since December 2023, to provide an acceptable level of fire safety in buildings pending introduction of the Statutory Scheme and completion of the full remedial works. The Scheme is for the funding of emergency fire safety defect works in apartments and duplexes constructed between 1991 and 2013. The Interim Remediation Scheme is administered by the Housing Agency. Applications can be made via the Housing Agency’s website at www.housingagency.ie.

The Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Scheme Bill is expected to be published this year and the statutory scheme will be in place shortly thereafter. It is envisaged that 100% of eligible remediation costs will be funded.

Required regulations, guidance and operational arrangements are being progressed in tandem and I expect them to be ready at the appropriate time.