Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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49. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will review correspondence regarding a grant for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2711/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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On 6 January 2021, the Government updated Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions. In line with the increased restrictions, construction closed from 6pm on Friday 8 January, with certain limited exceptions. SEAI supported retrofitting does not fall into one of the identified exceptions. On 8 January, SEAI updated its guidance to contractors to bring the new restrictions to their attention.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have confirmed that works are also not proceeding in local authority homes that are tenanted.

While it is appreciated that this disruption is unwelcome for many, the central consideration must be the minimisation of risk for homeowners and property occupants, contractors, their employees as well as the wider community. SEAI will further update contractors on any relevant changes to the public health guidance and relevant restrictions.

Although works cannot currently proceed, SEAI grant schemes remain open for new applications in order to ensure a speedy resumption of activity, once possible. All grant payment claims are continuing to be processed in accordance with normal service levels.