Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023
470. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if consideration has been given to providing advance payment of grants for the Croí Cónaithe fund, in view of situations where those renovating buildings in rural areas cannot afford to spend upfront to carry out works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63325/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was launched in July 2022 as part of the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The grant benefits those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence. The grant was initially launched in respect of vacant properties in towns and villages. As of the 15 November 2022, the grant was expanded to also include eligible vacant properties in both cities and rural areas.
Further information in this regard is available on my Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/969fb-vacant-property-refurbishment-grant-expanded-to-cities-and-remote-rural-areas/ In order for applications to be assessed for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and a decision made, specified supporting documentation must be submitted with the application and a site visit carried out by the local authority to assess the works being applied for. Following the approval of an application, the applicant then has 18 months from the date of grant approval to carry out the works on the property. When the proposed works are completed, the local authority then carries out a final inspection on the property to ensure that the works carried out are in line with the approved application. Following this, the grant is paid to the applicant.
Payment of the grant at the end of this process is to ensure that the applicant has carried out the works applied for, and approved, and to safeguard that the grant is related to the works which have been completed.
While interim reviews will be ongoing, a comprehensive review and evaluation of the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund will be undertaken no later than mid-2024.
