Colm Burke (Cork North-Central, Fine Gael)

As I said, I am speaking about people who are restricted in the amount they can borrow. Therefore, they are receiving assistance from parents which brings them under the qualifying criteria. Many of the new houses that are being built have air to water systems which are very expensive. People are installing such systems but are getting no support from the State because they receive support from parents. It is an issue that needs to be examined, in particular for those who do not qualify for a first-time purchase or owner's grant. When they get support from immediate family, they are penalised. Should there be a scheme whereby people can qualify for grants for heating systems when they have not qualified for a first-time owners grant? This would provide some incentive to put in place a system that is efficient and cost-effective.

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