Charles Ward says early defective concrete scheme applicants are being penalised

Homeowners who applied under the original defective concrete block redress scheme are at a financial disadvantage compared to those who entered the enhanced scheme, 100% Redress TD Charles Ward has said.

Early applicants were burdened with engineering fees ranging from €6,000 to €7,000, which appear to have been deducted from their grant limit if they reached the cap, while the new scheme, which was introduced in June 2023, does not impose such deductions, Deputy Ward said.

“This situation contradicts the assurances provided by Minister of Housing Darragh O’Brien, who stated that early applicants would not face penalties,” he said.

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He highlighted a recent case where a homeowner who applied to the original scheme received the maximum grant of €420,000, but their professional fees were included within this limit. While 90% of fees incurred in 2023 were reimbursed, he said, the remaining 10% can only now be claimed. This amount has been deducted from their Grant Allocation, reducing it to €413,000.

Another homeowner who was part of the initial scheme was allocated €238,000, which was then increased by their €7,000 fee, bringing it to €245,000 as they remain below the cap. He said the situation is unjust and requires urgent amendment.

“It is crucial for the department to swiftly address this issue and make retrospective adjustments to ensure fairness and clear inequitable treatment for all impacted homeowners.”