I welcome the announcement that families can now apply for a grant of €50,000 to refurbish a home that has been vacant for two years, with an additional top-up grant available if the property is derelict.
The details of the revised grant scheme will be published by Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien TD after this week’s Cabinet meeting.
“Up to now this grant was only available for those wishing to live in the refurbished property, but once refurbished it can now be rented out, helping to ease the housing pressure in many parts of the country.
In addition, these properties may also be eligible for energy retrofitting grants of €30,000”.
The Regional Group of Independent TDs put forward proposals last month to enhance the refurbishment scheme, which were taken up by Government and it is hoped that a substantial percentage of the estimated 160,000 properties that are vacant will now be brought back into use.
“In Galway East alone there are thousands of vacant homes in our towns, villages and rural areas and with this grant there is an opportunity to bring young families back into our parishes and into our local schools. The scheme will add vibrancy to our rural communities and local sports clubs”.
“It clearly shows that Independent TDs can make a real difference when they are willing to work with Government Ministers and when Ministers are willing to engage with constructive proposals. I will continue to work in a constructive manner to find solutions to the housing crisis.”