Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Everyone is aware that while the State is neither culpable nor liable for the pyrite problem, it nevertheless took responsibility to provide solutions for homeowners who, through no fault of their own, have been significantly damaged by pyritic heave and who have been left with no viable means of redress following the withdrawal of cover for pyrite damage by HomeBond in the summer of 2011. I note from the Minister's statement that the pyrite resolution board continues to engage with HomeBond with a view to agreeing on a process with which it can contribute to the remedial process, which is to be welcomed. The Minister stated it would not have been reasonable or defensible that affected homeowners, who have no viable option for redress, would be left without a resolution. The Minister and his officials have been working tirelessly over many months to put in place an alternative funding model for the pyrite remediation scheme. While recognising this has not been an easy task, having regard to budgetary constraints in the current climate, I note the Government has approved €10 million in initial funding and that additional funding will be allocated over the next two years from the capital stimulus programme. The Minister stated that approximately 1,000 dwellings are affected by pyritic heave and require immediate remediation. The pyrite resolution board, with support from the Housing Agency, will now implement this programme.

I again acknowledge and commend the Minister and his officials on the great work they have done in this matter. I also wish to acknowledge a conversation I had with the former Deputy Shane McEntee, in or around this week last year, in which he indicated his great concern for these people. He was extremely sympathetic and was deeply concerned. I acknowledge the part he had played prior to his death and the work his daughter, in following him, also has done. It would be remiss were Members in this House not to recognise all that had been done. I wholeheartedly welcome this most important Bill, which will give some comfort to many affected householders. It is to be hoped this important Bill will be accepted and agreed by all parties in this House and will be met with unanimous acceptance. Well done to all concerned.