John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael)

Yes, it has been a lengthy process but it is important to state that the work that has been done will be banked work, which will benefit all of the interim and statutory processes in future. On the new statutory scheme that will replace the interim scheme, the Minister received Government approval on 18 September for the priority drafting of the apartment and duplex remediation Bill. Drafting the Bill will enable the establishment of the statutory scheme and it is progressing. Various issues requiring legal advice are under consideration. The Bill has been included in the summer legislative programme for 2025 and it is intended that Government approval will be sought shortly to publish it. Subject to this approval, the general scheme will be available to undergo pre-legislative scrutiny. It is expected that the statutory scheme will be in place later this year and will provide support for the fire safety, structural safety and water ingress issues for those buildings constructed between 1991 and 2013. It is envisaged that it will cover 100% of the cost.

I reiterate that the work that has been done on the pathfinder projects and on the interim scheme is banked work that will benefit everything in future. It is a priority for the Government.