Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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245. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will change the criteria for the Croí Cónaithe scheme to include houses which have a functioning septic tank built to the standards prevailing when the house was constructed. [61743/22]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was launched as part of the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The grant benefits those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence. The grant was initially launched in respect of vacant properties in towns and villages and as of the 15 November, the grant was expanded to include eligible vacant properties in both cities and rural areas. This ensures that maximum use is made of existing dwellings for residential purposes. Further details are available on the following link: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/969fb-vacant-property-refurbishment-grant-expanded-to-cities-and-remote-rural-areas/. 

Included in the scheme outline for local authorities and prospective applicants is a list of categories of works which are eligible for grant assistance. While works in respect of septic tanks are not included, houses with septic tanks are not precluded from applying for the relevant works covered by the grant, subject to fulfillment of the rest of the criteria for the grant. Applications are assessed by the local authority which includes a site inspection to ensure the works applied for are eligible and the costs proposed are appropriate.

Vacant Homes Officers (VHOs) in each local authority are in place to provide applicants with further details on the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.