Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I commend my Fianna Fáil colleagues Senators Darragh O'Brien, Power and Byrne for tabling this very important Bill. I thank members on both sides of the House for their contributions. I especially thank the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Fergus O'Dowd for his very comprehensive contribution to the House this afternoon.

I have to admit that when Senators O'Brien, Power and Byrne raised this issue at a Seanad group meeting, I was not exactly sure what pyrite was and what they were talking about. Unfortunately I have become very aware of what it means to many thousands of households throughout the length and breadth of the country.

Colleagues have pointed out that pyrite has affected more than 72,500 households to date. I understand that only 1,000 houses have been remediated to date. I join in calling for immediate action to be taken to remedy the situation that is causing enormous hardship to these families. It affects not only the Dublin and the east coast area, where there is the greatest concentration, but almost every county, to a lesser extent in some counties. One case, however, is a case too many.

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy McGinley, to the House. May I ask him to relay the concerns expressed in the Seanad to his Cabinet colleagues. Grant aid must be provided so that the houses can be remediated. I understand it can cost up to ¤30,000, which is an enormous sum of money. In some instances, the premises might not be worth that amount. Grant aid or tax relief should be given to the people affected so that they can remedy the conditions brought about through no fault of their own.

Deputy Fergus O'Dowd mentioned that the primary source of the material came from five quarries. Has the Government investigated the possibility of pursuing the owners of these quarries for compensation through their insurance? I request an answer to that question.

Senator Norris made a suggestion that not only should houses by inspected for pyrite but also for fire and health safety. In area where Radon gas is prevalent, I suggest that it be inspected for radon gas at the same time? Radon gas is a major issue in the part of the country that I represent.

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, I wish to reserve three minutes of my time so that the debate on the Bill can be adjourned.