Longford councillor calls for review of vacant home scheme

Councillor Paul Ross has called upon the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien to review the Croí Conaíthe Vacant Homes Grant Scheme.

He requested that the Minister introduce a phased payment system that would allow the recipients to draw down the grant in a series of payments.

Cllr Ross put forward the motion at Longford County Council’s monthly meeting last Thursday.

Cllr Ross praised the scheme saying, “I think it's a great scheme, but there is a minor flaw in it.”

“There's payments of up to €57,000 but banks are not lending for that payment because the grant isn’t guaranteed until the work is finished,” he explained.

While there was some disagreement regarding the scheme entirely there were many who agreed with Cllr Ross.

Councillor Uruemu Adejinmi remarked, “Any scheme that sees a roof over peoples heads i think should be supported by every public person.”

She added. “My only regret is that it was extended to refurbishment then putting it up for let.”