Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. First, we have learned nothing new. We are aware that this has happened and that on 26 September, Sligo County Council engaged with the Housing Agency and commenced its investigations. According to the last letter I got in early December, the report was in draft form. We now need to see the report being brought forward. I am concerned about the use of the words "if appropriate". It is clear to everyone it is appropriate, because if the aggregate came from the same quarry in Mayo as the houses that are now being demolished and having to be rebuilt, clearly it is appropriate that the people who, unfortunately, bought their materials from that quarry will be in the same situation and will need to be part of a scheme.

I am also concerned about the reference in the reply to include "the whole, or part," of the county council area, which suggests that somehow or other there will be a further subdivision of a county, in addition to the areas where it is already in place. It is a reality that in a catchment area, people buy their building materials wherever they can get them, usually wherever they get them at a good price and get them delivered. They do not look to the county that they buy them in as they do not see a problem down the road. Putting a hurdle up in front of them is simply wrong and should not happen.

I am also conscious that when this does happen, which I hope is very soon, the local authority will have to play a role in it and it will need to have staff in place to apply the scheme. At the moment it does not have anyone in place to work in this particular area. That is another aspect of this issue that needs to be examined.

I am also aware of the need for enhanced scrutiny of building materials throughout the country. I know we have various agencies that are supposed to be doing that work but difficulties have arisen and some people point out that difficulties still arise and problems might emerge in the future. The Government must get a grip on the regulation of materials that go into people's homes, which are a very long-term investment. It must ensure a system is put in place to hold to account those who abuse the system. That has happened and this is clear evidence of it. I want an absolute assurance from the Minister of State that all of County Sligo will be included in this scheme immediately.

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