Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Across the State, people bought houses and apartments during the boom and then discovered to their horror that bad planning, poor regulation and reckless developers had left them with serious problems. Whether it is pyrite ripping homes apart in Dublin city or fire safety issues forcing people from their homes at Coalport Limited's Priory Hall, the hopes and dreams of many of these families have been destroyed. On a weekly basis, I deal with issues of dampness spores and so on. Again, it is always the tenant's or the owner's problem while the local authority steps back.

This week, we learned some of the residents in an affordable development in Lucan, County Dublin, have discovered their homes do not meet fire safety standards. The 52 houses in Foxford Court were sold in 2005, which is part of the problem. In 2005, people complained there was a problem with fire regulation in the area but it is only now, in 2013, that the developer is examining the problem. There is also a problem in that the houses were sold as affordable housing by South Dublin County Council, which has a responsibility. However, the council seems to be stepping back and saying it is a matter for the tenant.

What assurances can the Minister of State give the families in Foxford Court and other developments that their homes will be made safe and compliant with building and safety regulations? This estate is just one example and there could easily be others. What reassurances can the Minister of State give residents that they will not have to foot the bill for the works that are required to make their homes safe? Does he consider it acceptable for a local authority, South Dublin County Council in this instance, to wash its hands of a problem when it was the council that sold the affordable houses in 2005?

I emphasise that the delay from 2005 to 2013 is a serious issue. We are talking about fire safety yet we are eight years down the track. Something is wrong with the system. While the Minister of State might not know the detail, this could happen in any area. I point out this estate is not in my constituency but I am concerned and feel we need to address the problem.

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