Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 February 2024
169. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the position regarding fiscal oversight and management of the interim remediation scheme for fire safety defects in apartments and duplexes; what mechanisms and structures will be in place to ensure full oversight of this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8434/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn December 2023 I announced the opening of the Interim Remediation Scheme for the funding of emergency fire safety defect works in apartments and duplexes, constructed between 1991 and 2013.
The majority of remediation activities covered by the Interim Remediation Scheme will be to the common areas of buildings only, unless additional work is deemed necessary. Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs) will receive funding to carry out the necessary remedial works. Thus, only applications from authorised representatives of OMCs will be considered. Funding will not be directly allocated to any individual homeowner through this Interim Remediation Scheme. The Interim Remediation Scheme is being administered by the Housing Agency and applications can be made via their website at www.housingagency.ie.
The scheme only covers defects caused by defective design, workmanship or materials that breached the Building Regulations that applied when the property was built. The scheme will not cover defects that came about because of inadequate maintenance, insufficient sinking funds or later building work that was not managed correctly.
Application for funding through the scheme will need to pass several stages of oversight, including:
• Submission of a valid application with development particulars and authorised contact information;
• Provision of an application pack to valid applicants only;
• Selection and engagement of a Competent Professional for the discovery of fire safety defects and identification of necessary works;
• Completion of a Fire Safety Risk Assessment (FSRA) and the preparation of a proposed Interim Remediation Works Plan, subject to engagement with Local Authority Fire Services (LAFS);
• Procurement of a Competent Builder and determination of costs;
• Works eligibility assessment and provisional funding approval by the Housing Agency;
• Issuing of a Grant Agreement for the OMC's review, signature and return. By signing the Grant Agreement, the OMC will agree to the terms and conditions specified;
• Remedial works proceed in accordance with the particulars submitted and as outlined in the Grant Agreement;
• The OMC provides the Housing Agency with the necessary certificates of completion/compliance and supporting documentation agreed.
To ensure value for money and good governance regarding Exchequer funding, appropriate terms and conditions in accordance with DPER Circular 13/2014, 'Management of and Accountability for Grants from Exchequer Funds', will apply to such funding. These details will be outlined in the Grant Agreement
