Limerick homeowners impacted by 'defective blocks' to welcome grants of up to €420,000

HOMEOWNERS welcome the announcement of an enhanced grant scheme, marking “a new beginning” for those seeking house restoration.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, announced an enhancement to the Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) Grant Scheme. Grants of up to €420,000 will be available for those affected.

This scheme will provide financial support to affected homeowners in Limerick whose dwelling had been damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks in its construction. 

Depending on the works required under the scheme, funding will be allocated accordingly. It is now open to new applications. 

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Describing the enhanced scheme as “a new beginning” Minister O’Brien said: “I am really pleased to be able to launch this much needed scheme today. 

“I know the difficulties faced by affected households in financial and personal terms has been very significant these past number of years. 

“The improved package of measures under this considerably enhanced scheme will mark a new beginning for those who need to remediate their homes.” 

The DCB scheme has been legislated following extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including that of Limerick City and County Council.

Minister O’Brien concluded by saying that regulations and guidelines will be under regular review, due to the “complex nature” of the grant scheme, and that an Implementation Steering Group will be set up to ensure that any issues are dealt with adequately.  

Information on the application process for first-time applicants for Limerick can be found here.