I propose to take Questions Nos. 1386 and 1387 together.
An agreement was signed in mid-June 2014 between the Pyrite Resolution Board and HomeBond on the voluntary contribution that HomeBond would make to the implementation/administration of the pyrite remediation scheme. The agreement came into immediate effect and is subject to annual review.
The agreement sets out the contribution to the value of €2 million by way of staffing and services in the following areas:
- to provide assistance to the Pyrite Resolution Board;
- to arrange for the provision of sampling, testing and reporting on subfloor materials;
- project management support to the Housing Agency; and
- the provision of a structural warranty for works completed under the pyrite remediation scheme.
All services are being provided under the direction and supervision of the Pyrite Resolution Board and/or the Housing Agency. In this context, it should be noted that the HomeBond staff do not make decisions on the eligibility of applicants under the scheme nor have they adjudicated in any audits of Building Condition Assessments provided by applicants under the pyrite remediation scheme. The auditing of Building Condition Assessments is carried out by the Board's decision makers in accordance with the provisions of the Pyrite Resolution Act 2013.
I understand that two members of HomeBond have been made available to the Housing Agency and have been assigned as project managers in respect of a number of remediation projects that are currently underway. In this regard, I understand that the Housing Agency is satisfied that all personnel assigned as project managers have the necessary competence and skills to fulfil these roles appropriately.
