A Galway TD has welcomed the government’s announcement that they will refurbish and re-let around 3,000 social homes nationally this year.
Sean Canney TD said that he is pleased that Galway County Council are to have 67 houses refurbished under the scheme.
“This will bring another 67 families off the housing list and refurbish vacant properties,” he said.
“Under the scheme the Department will cover the cost of up to €11,000 per property for the refurbishment of standard vacant properties.
“Recognising that a small number of homes which are vacant do require significant investment to bring them back into use, local authorities can recoup an average of €50,000 per property for up to 10% of their vacant stock”.
The East Galway TD said that he is delighted with this initiative, which will ‘allow Local Authorities can get to work in bringing vacant social housing properties back into use’.
“Following a 13-week construction sector shut-down we know that COVID-19 will have a significant impact on housing delivery targets and the Government have said we will do all that we can to make up for any loss.
“The refurbishment and re-letting of vacant social housing stock is vitally important in this regard.
“The programme will also lead to an added economic benefit with further employment generated for local builders, carpenters, painters, plumbers, electricians etc.
“I acknowledge the work of the housing department within Galway County Council for their engagement with this programme and urge them to refurbish and re-let their homes to those on the social housing waiting list and those experiencing homelessness as soon as possible.”
