Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

Once again, I thank the Deputy for raising this important matter. Addressing vacancy and dereliction is a key priority for the Government. As I stated, I am taking this debate on behalf of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy James Browne.

As I mentioned, with to regard to dereliction and vacancy in Ireland, particularly in small towns and villages, the Government is taking a proactive, co-ordinated and whole-of-government approach, which recognises the importance of supporting and empowering local businesses and residents to make real and lasting change in their communities. The Deputy referenced local authorities. Many local authorities have specific vacant homes and properties teams operating. Substantial progress is being made on delivering on the town centre first approach and the vacant homes action plan through the provision of dedicated staff and resources for the dereliction and vacancy issues I referenced. These are being complemented by the financial supports for planning reforms aimed at converting underutilised buildings to new homes in our towns and urban areas.

The range of measures being taken by the Government to address vacancy and dereliction are having a real success and vacancy levels are declining. Significant investment through schemes, such as the urban regeneration and development fund, the vacant property refurbishment grant and the repair and leasing scheme, are helping both local authorities and ordinary people to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use and revitalise towns across the country.

With regard to derelict sites, my Department initiated a review of the Derelict Sites Act and invited local authorities to make initial submissions on potential improvements to the legislative provisions and the way they are applied.

I again thank the Deputy for raising this issue and providing me with an opportunity to inform and update the House.

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