Minister for Housing James Browne is to seek Cabinet approval to prioritise the redrafting of the Defective Concrete Blocks Bill.
The amendments include an increased scheme cap and updated grant rates, applicable retrospectively to all applicants who have incurred costs since 29 March 2024.
A doubling of the timeframe for completing remediation works, from 65 weeks to 130 weeks is also within the proposed changes.
It also includes the introduction of limited flexibility to allow the construction of a new dwelling adjacent to a defective home, in exceptional cases involving vulnerable families.
100% Redress Party TD Charles Ward says he is seeking clarification on a number of issues on the forthcoming amendment.
“This announcement marks a welcome shift towards a more realistic approach,” said Deputy Ward. “The increased cap, extended timeframes, and new provisions for vulnerable families are long overdue and will make a real difference for many.”
Deputy Ward said that the adjustments reflect some recognition of the real life challenges faced by impacted homeowners and communities.
He has again called on Government to also acknowledge the many other failings of the scheme and to ensure that the final outcome of the I.S. 465:202X review leads to a fully science led and fair scheme.
“The crisis is far from over,” Deputy Ward added. “The amended legislation, as proposed, still does not go far enough in scope or speed. We urge the Government to continue listening to impacted homeowners and to ensure that no one is left behind.”
Minister Browne visited Donegal in May to meet with public representatives, Donegal County Council staff and homeowners affected by the defective concrete block crisis.
Deputy Ward says there has been a “collaborative approach” taken on outstanding issues.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Minister Browne for his engagement and for following through on the discussions we held in recent weeks,” Deputy Ward said.
“We strongly support a speedy implementation of the new Bill and call for full transparency and meaningful engagement with stakeholders throughout the legislative process.
“The State must now demonstrate that it is willing not just to respond to this crisis, but to resolve it with fairness, urgency, and compassion.”
