I propose to take Questions Nos. 305 and 310 together.
There have been a number of engagements between my Department and the Banking and Payments Federation (BPFI) on specific issues raised by Defective Concrete Block (DCB) homeowners to see what can be done to address their concerns. I am aware also that homeowners have engaged directly on a bilateral basis with other stakeholders including the BPFI and Insurance Ireland, on matters of mutual interest.
I have established an Implementation Steering Group to work through issues around the DCB scheme as they arise and make recommendations if further changes to the regulations or guidelines on the Scheme are needed. The Group comprises the relevant local authorities, my Department, the Housing Agency, and the Homeowner's Liaison Officer and has met in August and September with the next meeting scheduled for this week. This Group will report directly to me and will prepare a report on the first six months of operation of the scheme.
My Department will continue to engage with the BPFI and others over the coming weeks. The appropriate format for engagement going forward with a wider group of stakeholders including homeowners will be considered with due cognisance being given to the existing consultative fora.
