Time Ticking on FG Pyrite Promises

Houses in Mayo and Donegal continue to crumble while the Government’s pyrite promises fail to materialise.

In October 2018, the Government agreed in principle to the development of a scheme of financial assistance to pyrite affected homeowners in Mayo and Donegal. In May 2019, €20 million within the housing budget was allocated. Now, delays continue because Government are still finalising the terms and conditions of the scheme, as well as consulting with local authorities.

I find it hard to believe that this preparation was not carried out as soon as the scheme was agreed to in principle. There is a relatively small window of opportunity to carry out such major structural work to houses. That time is ticking away as we speak. Government needs to speed this up and at least open up the scheme and start accepting applications. This would allow homeowners get quotes and give a rough estimate to builders of when work may commence. Without this, homeowners are in no better position than they were this time last year.

I am also concerned that the involvement of local authorities does not add any delay or extra layer of administration which has happened in other schemes delivered through local authorities. Homeowners need dates and the guarantee of direct funding to carry out essential works to their homes.