Newly-elected Donegal TD Charles Ward says Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are not committed to a genuine 100% redress scheme.
The defective blocks campaigner was speaking in the wake of the release of the Programme for Government.
The Drumkeen resident revealed that he had written to both parties and to the Regional Independent group but had not received a reply.
He said “It is clear to me that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are not committed to a genuine 100% redress scheme for all those impacted by defective concrete products and I was unable and unwilling to enter into government formation talks without this firm commitment.
“I have been given a mandate by the people of Donegal to represent owners of defective homes and to fight for a scheme that is fit for purpose and based on science.”
Deputy Ward said that while government formation talks were taking place I wrote to the lead negotiators of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Regional Independent group requesting an urgent meeting to ensure that impacted homeowners would not be left behind in the programme for government.
He added “In my correspondence, I outlined four key issues: immediate action on technical review, restoring confidence in the housing agency, addressing financial hardship and prioritising support for vulnerable groups.
“I am disappointed that I have not heard back from the parties or groups as of yet, but I remain hopeful and ready for any opportunity to meet and work with the government to properly address the humanitarian crisis that is impacting thousands across Ireland.
I welcome the Programme for Government’s commitment to establish a Building Standards Regulatory Authority, to undertake a planned review of the Defective Concrete Scheme and to expand the Defective Concrete Scheme.
“However, full and proper implementation of these commitments is crucial.
“I will continue to fight for full 100% redress and remain committed to ensuring owners of defective homes have an effective and active voice in the Dáil Éireann.”
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