Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is really hard to get a builder at the moment. Anyone who has tried to get someone to do any work will know how difficult it is. I am getting work done on my home and I am waiting more than a year for the builder to visit. I support the amendment.

I am concerned by some of the comments we have heard in regard to the shortfall in funding. I ask the Minister for his attention on this issue. Several speakers have claimed people will be out of pocket by tens of thousands of euro. In the case of elderly homeowners and those with disabilities who avail of the scheme, will they be able to access the housing adaptation grant, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, SEAI, grants and mobility grants to make up the shortfall? I would like the Minister to clarify that on the record of the House. I am sure there are many scared people listening to this debate, including some who are elderly or have a disability and who are afraid they will be unable to rebuild. Will they be able to avail of the grants to which I referred?