Local TD Seán Canney has welcomed the announcement that people can now apply for a grant of €50,000 to refurbish a home that has been vacant for two years — with an additional top-up grant available if the property is derelict.
The details of the revised grant scheme will be published by Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien TD after this week’s Cabinet meeting.
The grant was previously available for those wishing to live in the refurbished property, but once refurbished it can now be rented out.
Independent TD Seán Canney said that this will help to ease the pressure on housing in many parts of the country.
The properties may also be eligible for energy retrofitting grants of €30,000, Deputy Canney said.
“In Galway East alone there are thousands of vacant homes in our towns, villages and rural areas and with this grant there is an opportunity to bring young families back into our parishes and into our local schools.
“The scheme will add vibrancy to our rural communities and local sports clubs.”
