Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the fact that Limerick has been included in the defective blocks scheme. I have been working with residents on this for quite a while. It was announced in the past couple of days by the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, and Minister of State, Deputy O'Donnell. It is certainly welcome news because so many people have been affected not only in Limerick but in Clare, Donegal and Mayo. It is an enhanced scheme and residents who rectify the defects in their homes can avail of up to €450,000. In many cases it will not cost that amount. However, many people will have to move out of their homes. One family took down the side of their house recently and had to rebuild it. It is not an easy process for people. I welcome the fact the State has stepped up to the mark in this regard. People can access the forms and information through their local authorities. I encourage people to go to limerick.ie to find out. There is also a defective blocks page where many questions are answered. This is welcome news for the people of Limerick and the mid-west.

I wish our colleague, Senator McGahon, who is getting married at the weekend, all the very best for the future. I wish him and his wife-to-be, Áine, every happiness in their future.