Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. I will commit to taking her views back to the Department. The Senator is right about the whole concept of liveable homes. I thank her again for her contribution. I reassure the Senator that the Government is committed to addressing the issue of vacancy.The vacant property refurbishment grant has been successful. An above-shop top-up grant is being developed and other changes are being considered to improve the effectiveness of the scheme. We will continue to support bringing as many existing properties as possible back into use as homes. I will convey the views of the Senator to the Minister.

I repeat that I am as committed to this matter as the Senator. It is a scheme that will revitalise areas. I am thinking of Cork city but I know the Senator is thinking of parts of Dublin. Other urban towns will also benefit from the scheme. It is, as the Senator has said, about tackling the number one issue for all of us. Despite what some people would think, it is the Government's number one priority. I again thank the Senator for raising the matter this morning.