Worst affected mica homeowners to finally receive accommodation grants

Donegal homeowners who urgently need to move out of severely damaged homes caused by defective blocks will finally receive accommodation grants, it has been confirmed.

Grants of €15,000 and an additional €5,000 for storage costs will be made available for up to 20 families.

The grants will be made available next week through Donegal County Council.

Homeowners were made aware of the decision by Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien following his consultation with the Attorney General.

Welcoming the decision, Mica Action Group chairperson Lisa Hone said it "was a move in the right direction".

"It is a move forward and if we can make this a reality next week, that should give some pathways forward for those homeowners who are sitting in very badly affected homes at the moment. So, hopefully good news," she said.

100% Redress No Less campaigner Paddy Diver said: "This is good for the people in dire straits and dire need of emergency accommodation."

"Today is victory for the people in dire straits that need it the most and I'm sure nobody will begrudge them that."

Mr Diver also confirmed that tomorrow's planned protest at Carndonagh Public Services Centre will now not go ahead. Campaigners were set to occupy the building today however it was cancelled as Donegal County Council had closed to the public.