Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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567. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if the eligibility criteria for the Croí Cónaithe scheme could be extended to cover houses built after the year 1993 (details supplied); and if not, the other supports that are available for homeowners who wish to bring derelict housing into regular use. [1834/23]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 563 and 567 together.

Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, a grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not previously been used as residential. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000.

A range of individuals or households in which the property will be their principal private residence are eligible to avail of the Grant. These include First Time Buyers, those who qualify under the 'Fresh Start' principle, applicants who have specific needs such as older or disabled people, and applicants who are moving from their current home which they are selling or have sold and want to refurbish and live in a vacant property. Purchasers benefitting from this scheme may also be eligible for a Local Authority Home Loan and retrofit grants under the SEAI Better Energy Homes Scheme.

Properties considered for inclusion must be vacant for two years or more and built before 1993. Proof of both vacancy and ownership are required to support the grant payment. Evidence that the property was built before 1993 will also be required. This property criteria is in alignment with prioritisation under the SEAI Better Energy Homes Scheme.

While interim reviews will be ongoing, a comprehensive review and evaluation of the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund will be undertaken no later than mid-2024.