Croí Conaithe system not working for people in Tipperary
Labour TD Alan Kelly has called on Government to reform the Croí Conaithe scheme.
Deputy Kelly said:
“The Croí Conaithe scheme is a much welcomed step in the right direction to tackle the scourge of vacant and derelict properties nationwide, but it needs serious reform.
“Once approved for the scheme, people have 13 months to carry out the works. It’s just not a realistic or reasonable time frame, and it’s putting people off applying for the grant.
“Too many homes are lying empty across the country. While 57,206 properties are vacant according to Local Property Tax returns, census estimates are much higher at 166,752 – that doesn’t include the 66,135 seasonal holiday homes.
“Tipperary County Council has sanctioned 211 Croí Conaithe Vacant Homes Grant applications worth over €11.337m but approved applicants are being put under financial pressure due to a delay in paying them out.
“The reality is, many people can’t afford the upfront cost and are struggling to get contractors to carry out the works in the limiting 13 month period.
“I would urge the Minister for Housing to reflect on the practical experience of people and reform the grant accordingly.”