Highlights

The Irish government has invested more than €230m to compensate homeowners affected by defective concrete blocks. Primarily impacting Donegal, Clare, Limerick, Mayo, and Sligo counties, many houses continue to crumble. Despite the aid scheme capped at €420,000 per residence, campaigners argue the pace is insufficient, with numerous families still in unsafe homes as winter approaches.

Sentiment Analysis

• Mixed sentiment prevails, with frustration over the program's slow progress contrasting with appreciation for government efforts.


• Positive appreciation for government's financial commitment to addressing the issue.


• Concerns about safety, further delays, and housing crises resonate with affected families.

Article Text

The Irish government's financial commitment to addressing the housing crisis due to defective concrete blocks has reached over €230m. Affected regions, such as Donegal, Clare, Limerick, Mayo, and Sligo, see many homes disintegrating due to the poor-quality materials used in construction. Despite the existence of a redress scheme introduced in November 2021, capped at €420,000 per property, discontent persists among campaigners who criticize the progress.

More than 1,700 remediation determinations have been issued, with 320 households completing works by October, and 1,000 initiating repair or restoration efforts. However, many remain in unsettled conditions with incomplete processes. Campaigners like Councillor Joy Beard vocalize concerns over the pace, describing it as insufficient for the majority of homeowners. She emphasizes that families will spend another winter in hazardous conditions, struggling with heating lost through structural cracks.

Furthermore, the shortfall between granted funds and actual building costs places families in a dilemma, exacerbated by a housing crisis limiting the availability of temporary accommodations. As Beard details, essential warmth is lost through the damaged walls, affecting families significantly during colder months.

The Department of Housing plans to extend further financial resources, with commitments reaching €175m by 2026, to address these ongoing issues. Nevertheless, uncertainties remain for many families awaiting safer living conditions.

Key Insights Table