Mayo Minister welcomes publication of Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme Amendment Bill

Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD, has welcomed Cabinet approval for the publication of the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks (Amendment) Bill 2025.

The Bill will widen the group of homeowners eligible to benefit from the increased grant scheme cap and rates approved in late 2024, while also introducing technical amendments to simplify the process and ensure the smooth operation of the scheme.

Minister Dillon said: “This Bill is a vital step forward for families in Mayo who continue to live with the devastating impact of defective concrete blocks. By widening eligibility and simplifying the process, the Government is ensuring that more homeowners can access the supports they need. These amendments reflect the concerns raised by campaigners and local representatives, and I am committed to ensuring that families in Mayo are fairly dealt with under the scheme.”

 Key provisions of the Bill include:

• Allowing retrospective payments for homeowners who exceeded the previous grant cap of €420,000.
• Extending the timeframe for remediation works from 65 weeks to 130 weeks, with a simplified extension process.
• Permitting technical reviews of remediation options for certain applicants.
• Facilitating access to ancillary grants for those who had reached the maximum cap.
• Recognising spouses, civil partners and co-habiting partners as relevant owners under the scheme.

Minister Dillon concluded: “This legislation is badly needed and will provide greater flexibility, fairness and clarity for affected homeowners. I will continue to work with colleagues in Government to ensure that families in Mayo receive the support they deserve as this Bill progresses through the Oireachtas.”

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