Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 April 2024
48. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to provide an update on the DCB scheme, specifically regarding the reimbursement of costs associated with SEAI; when is the proposal expected to be presented to Cabinet as homeowners affected by mica and pyrite are seeking clarity on the Government's timelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15637/24]
View answerHomeowners eligible for works under the Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) scheme may apply for energy upgrade grants administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Homeowners’ whose applications comply with the existing SEAI Scheme criteria and guidelines can access SEAI grants in line with the usual application processes that apply. Further information in that regard is available at Home Energy Upgrades | Home Energy | SEAI.
My Department and SEAI are aware however of the particular issues arising for DCB homeowners that do not currently comply with the SEAI scheme terms and conditions. Examples of such situations include homeowners that previously received SEAI grant support to upgrade a home which now needs to be demolished due to defective concrete block and wish to avail of further SEAI grant supports for their new home.
The Department is working with SEAI to develop an approach to address these matters. The Department is actively engaging with SEAI in relation to the proposals which are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.
SEAI continues to engage directly with impacted homeowners on a case by case basis to discuss their particular circumstances. A specific page on the SEAI website provides further information for DCB affected homeowners (Defective Concrete Blocks Affected Homeowners | Individual Energy Upgrades | SEAI). Homeowners can also contact the SEAI at a dedicated DCB phone number 01-8082004 or by email at dcb@seai.ie.
