John Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister and Ministers of State for their attendance. This meeting gives us a good opportunity to discuss some of the items that have been announced today and some of the other items that have been worked through over the past couple of years.

I will begin by discussing the changes announced today in the grant for vacant and derelict properties. It is positive news that a person can receive up to €70,000 to bring a derelict property back into use and it is possible to combine the scheme with the SEAI energy grant of €27,000. So now nearly €100,000 is available in grant support for young people to bring a derelict property back into use for housing. I believe the announcement will change the dial and have a tangible impact on housing so I commend the Minister and Ministers of State on their work on this matter.

When will the updated guidance document and circular be issued to local authorities regarding the changes that were announced by Cabinet today? It is important that is done because I want to ensure there is no ambiguity among councils. The Cabinet has made a very clear decision and we want to see it implemented by local authorities as soon as possible.