Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2016
426. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the key features of the grant scheme for the replacement of lead pipes and fillings within the boundaries of a household including if this grant covers the cost of assessment for lead in a household's pipe network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9788/16]
View answerGrants are available to assist low-income householders with the cost of replacing lead pipes and fittings within the boundaries of their principal private residence. Only the cost of replacement works constitutes qualifying expenditure. Assessment costs do not qualify for grant aid. The scheme is administered by the local authorities and its key features are as follows:
- Households with income of up to €50,000 per annum are eligible to apply for a grant of 80% of approved costs with a maximum grant payable of €4,000. Households with incomes between €50,001 and €75,000 are eligible for a grant of 50% of approved costs with a maximum grant payable of €2,500.
- Applicants must provide evidence of household income; this requirement mirrors a condition for the septic tank and certain housing grants which are administered by the local authorities.
- A grant will only be paid after the works have been carried out and on production of a receipt.
- Contractors engaged by householders must provide a copy of a current tax clearance certificate and certify that the works carried out, and the materials and fittings used, are of appropriate quality and standard.
- Eligible costs incurred must exceed €200.
Full details of the grants scheme are set out in the Domestic Lead Remediation (Financial Assistance) Regulations 2016, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas library. A combined information leaflet and application form is published on my Department’s website at: http://www.environ.ie/water/leaflets/lead-drinking-water/lead-remediation-grant-scheme
