Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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510. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the options open to apartment owners experiencing the effects of pyrite but whose neighbours, also affected by the same problem, do not want to take any action via the Pyrite Remediation Board or other means; if this issue is acknowledged and if possible solutions via the Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011; if not, if other regulations are being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33877/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The Pyrite Resolution Act 2013 provides the statutory framework for the establishment of the Pyrite Resolution Board and the implementation of the Pyrite Remediation Scheme, which is administered by the Board with the support of the Housing Agency.The provisions of the Act apply solely to dwellings affected by significant damage attributable to pyritic heave, resulting from the presence of reactive pyrite in the subfloor hardcore material. The Scheme was established to remediate such dwellings where the swelling of hardcore beneath ground floor slabs has caused structural damage.It is important to note that the Pyrite Remediation Scheme is a measure of last resort, intended for homeowners who have no other practical means of redress. The eligibility criteria and full terms of the Scheme are outlined on the Pyrite Resolution Board (PRB) website.

Owner Management Companies and managing agents in housing estates who approach the Pyrite Remediation Scheme are advised on how they may engage with it. Homeowners may submit applications online through the PRB website. A key eligibility requirement is that the dwelling must achieve a level of damage as determined in a Building Condition Assessment report carried out in accordance with I.S. 398-1:2017.

In the matter of possible solutions via the Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011, at present, the Minister for Justice and his Department continue to have responsibility for the oversight of Owner Management Companies (OMCs) and related regulations.

Under the Programme for Government my Department will take responsibility for the Multi-Unit Development Acts to streamline support for owners’ management companies and improve oversight.

A timeline for the transfer of functions from the Department of Justice is being advanced and engagement between our Departments is ongoing to ensure this happens in a well-managed and efficient manner.