€20 million pyrite remediation scheme to benefit Ashbourne, Dunshaughlin and Dunboyne

Fine Gael TD for Meath East Regina Doherty, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the announcement of further funding for the pyrite remediation scheme by Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD.  

“Today’s announcement brings to €20m the amount of funding to be allocated by the Pyrite Resolution Board. People in Ashbourne, Dunshaughlin and Dunboyne have been severely affected by pyrite problems in their homes. The Government is working hard to help these people who have been in limbo for some time.

“For the past year the Government has been working to put in place a funding model for the pyrite remediation scheme, I am delighted that the initial €10 million fund has now been doubled ensuring that the scheme will be well funded into 2015.

“Pyrite is problem that has arisen through no fault of home owners and people have been waiting for a resolution for a very long time.

“The PRB estimates that there are approximately 1,000 dwellings affected by significant pyritic heave across the country. So far 418 homeowners have completed applications with 146 others in the process. Significant progress has been made in tackling this issue but there is more to do. 

“The online application process, launched in February has made the application process much more efficient. The case management system has been developed for tracking and storing documents related to the remediation scheme and applicants are able to track progress on their application and the remediation works to their dwelling.

“A house is the largest purchase you are likely to make in your lifetime. In particular, homes in Ashbourne, Dunshaughlin and Dunboyne were at the top end of the market during the boom when these houses were built. Homeowners affected by pyrite have paid big money for their homes and they need a resolution. This funding will assist homeowners and bring us towards a conclusion in dealing with this issue.”