Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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349. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will outline the details of the pyrite remediation scheme; if it is the case that those residents having work done on their home must pay for alternative accommodation for the duration of the works; if he will review this decision in view of the existing hardships on these residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14776/14]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The pyrite remediation scheme applies to dwellings which are affected by significant damage attributable to pyritic heave in the counties of Kildare, Meath, Offaly and the administrative areas of Fingal County Council and Dublin City Council. The scheme is one of “last resort” and to be included in the scheme applicants must be able to demonstrate to the Pyrite Resolution Board that they have no practicable options other than under the scheme and discounting their own resources to secure the remediation of their dwelling. Full details of the scheme are available on the Pyrite Resolution Board's website at .

The scheme provides for the recoupment of the vouched cost of alternative accommodation, furniture removal and storage subject to limits of €3,000 and €2,500 (inclusive of VAT) respectively. However, where a scheme participant can satisfy the Housing Agency, who will be making the payments, in advance that suitable rental accommodation cannot be obtained for €3,000 or less the expenses for the accommodation and furniture removal can be combined, subject to the overall limit of €5,500. In addition, earlier payment in part or in whole may be made where a scheme participant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Housing Agency that payment of these costs on completion of the works would cause financial hardship.