€20m in funding shows Govt is keeping its promises on pyrite – McEntee

Fine Gael Meath East TD, Helen McEntee, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the announcement that the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan TD, has approved further funding for the pyrite remediation scheme, saying it shows that the Government is keeping its promise to address the pyrite problem.

“Under the Government’s latest Stimulus Programme, additional funding has been approved for the pyrite remediation scheme, bringing the total fund to €20 million. This additional funding was promised by Minister Hogan back in October when an initial €10 million in funding was announced, and I would like to thank the Minister for living up to his commitment to put a funding model in place that works for homeowners affected by pyritic heave.

“Today’s announcement will put an end to concerns that further funding would not be forthcoming. The Government is determined to address the problems facing pyrite homeowners. They were let down unfairly by the regulatory system and the previous Fianna Fáil government. This additional funding should ensure that remediation works can be carried out and that residents can finally get back to life as normal.

“I understand that a total of 418 completed applications had been received by the Pyrite Resolution Board (PRB) by the middle of last month and a further 146 individuals are at various stages of the application process. 

“However, I am aware that many of those who have had their applications completed have not yet been visited by staff from the PRB. This is purely an issue of time and manpower, so I would urge people to be patient and rest assured that their homes will be dealt with.

“The PRB is charged with implementing the remediation programme with support from the Housing Agency, and this additional funding will ensure that the scheme is significantly funded into 2015. I am pleased that the Minister has said that the scheme will be reviewed on an on-going basis and that funding post-2015 will be dealt with.

“It is essential for the homeowners involved, who have suffered for long enough, that the remediation scheme continues without delay. After working on this issue for a number of years, I am glad that considerable progress is being made and the Government is delivering its promise to help pyrite homeowners.”

ENDS