Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I again thank the Senator for raising this issue. Not only have I listened carefully but I will also ensure that the officials in the Department who are dealing with drawing up the specific details take on board and fully note everything that has been said during our conversation in the House, especially that relating to the Border region.

As I said, the levy is not the only action the Government is taking. I highlighted a review by senior counsel that will take place and the Government is committed to the establishment of an independent building standards regulator. The Remediation of Dwellings Damaged By the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 provides for the State to take over a legal right of claim against the defective blocks in a relevant dwelling against any party, including the insurance company or the original suppliers. This will allow the State to pursue claims against wrongdoers and remove the burden from individual homeowners in respect of this situation.

I thank the Senator for raising this matter, which will be fully taken into consideration by the Department.