Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister knows, the Mica Action Group campaigned for many years. The Minister referred to the pyrite scheme for families in Dublin and north Leinster. That scheme was 100% funded. We in Donegal have always felt let down in that our scheme was 90% funded. We were, however, relieved to have some type of a scheme. The difficulty right now is that the limits for a complete rebuild of one's home meant that it is just not economic. The families not only have to make up the remaining 10%, but pay VAT. Why is that? This is the second time they have had to build their homes. Why would they also pay VAT? Construction costs are increasing. The Minister talked about the role of the banks. His colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy English, who introduced this scheme, recently asked where the banks are. We are now nearly a year on. Where are the banks in assisting these families? These are the questions people are asking.

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