Deputy Charlie McConalogue says the Taoiseach’s admission that the MICA report into affected homes in Donegal and Mayo has still not been discussed at Cabinet clearly demonstrates this Government’s strategy of dragging its feet in dealing with the issue.
The Inishowen TD raised the issue with the Taoiseach in the Dáil this week and Leo Varadkar admitted that the matter has yet to be discussed by Cabinet.
“The Taoiseach’s response was extremely disappointing, however it is representative of the Governments continuing reluctance to deal with this issue. This MICA report was published earlier this year, almost a year after the original deadline, and I was seeking an update on what progress has been made on its recommendations”, explained Deputy McConalogue.
“It beggars belief that there has yet to be a discussion at Cabinet level on this serious issue and indeed, there is still no commitment from the Government on a redress scheme for those affected.
“The expert panel report identified that there are up to 5000 homes that are potentially affected by MICA. Time is of the essence here – people’s homes are literally crumbling around them and this issue should be a top priority for Government. It simply cannot afford to drag its heels, however, this is exactly what this Government is doing. The latest response from the Taoiseach will be a slap in the face to those living in MICA affected homes.
“Donegal has a seat at the Cabinet table through Minister Joe McHugh and it is very disappointing to see that the seriousness of this issue has yet to be impressed on his colleagues at a Cabinet meeting. Minister McHugh must ensure that this issue is discussed by senior Ministers immediately and I am calling on this Government to commit to a redress scheme.
“I will continue to pursue this with the Government on the behalf of all those affected”.
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