Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Donegal caused by the defective concrete blocks crisis. I was there myself recently and met with the families. It is absolutely devastating. We must consider the families, including the elderly and vulnerable within those families. They are trapped in homes that are structurally unsound and plagued by damp and mould. Children are actually at most risk and citizens are suffering from constant respiratory issues, while babies are exposed to hazardous spores in their own homes.

The mental health aspect of this is off the Richter scale and there has been new evidence that speaks to the impact on mental health the defective concrete blocks crisis has had. It definitely is a health crisis and cannot be ignored. Homeowners are unable to seal the cracks in their homes as doing so could disqualify them from remediation. As a result, these homes remain exposed to the elements, allowing pests to invade and making it impossible to keep them warm. The situation is both cruel and unacceptable and leaves families in dire conditions.

The impact extends beyond individual homes because essential community buildings, like shops, care homes and leisure facilities are also at risk, threatening the very fabric of towns and villages. We urgently need Government intervention. This includes a fully funded, science-led remediation scheme for all affected properties, immediate provision of modular homes for displaced families and the inclusion of all affected buildings in the remediation plan. We also need a dedicated strategy for social housing and the removal of current financial caps. This crisis has been ongoing for 14 years and it really has reached breaking point. It is vital to have an immediate solution to protect these families, communities and the economy of Donegal. Will the Minister give us an update as to what is going to happen and what the Government is going to do for the people of Donegal living in these horrific situations?