Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 59: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if funding is available for the restoration and upkeep of thatched cottages in our communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47036/09]

Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Under my Department's renewal or repair of thatch roofs of a house grant scheme, a grant up to €3,810, or two thirds of the approved cost, whichever is the lesser, may be payable in respect of necessary works to renew or repair the thatched roofs of houses. A higher grant of up to €5,714 may be payable where the house is situated on certain specified islands off the west and south coasts. In the case of medical card holders, a grant of up to €6,350, or up to 80% of the approved cost, may be payable in respect of houses situated on the mainland, rising to €8,252 where the house is situated on a specified off-shore island.

Eligibility under the grant scheme is contingent on the house being occupied as a normal place of residence on completion of the approved works.