Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the response. I note this matter does not come within the remit of the Minister of State, but the Minister, Deputy Ryan, may not have been available this morning. I am very disappointed. Twenty-six months is a very long time, particularly for those who are on the poverty line. All of the people who can avail of these grants are on the poverty line. It is not only for this winter they will not have an upgrade, but next winter and the winter after that. It is only after that they will get the works done and, as such, it will be three years before people will be able to avail of the warmer homes scheme.

More must be done. We must either reduce the VAT rate or apply a zero VAT rate in respect of retrofit works to make houses warmer for those who are not eligible for works under the free scheme. We need to do something for the people who, possibly, can pay to retrofit their homes to make them warmer. Since 2001, only 11 homes per week have been retrofitted. That is not a success story.