The request that Limerick be added to Pyrite Resolution Scheme is a step in the right direction, a Fine Gael Senator has said.
Senator Maria Byrne has said that residents in Limerick City & County impacted by pyrite in their homes have received a welcome boost after receiving confirmation from the Pyrite Resolution Board that they will be writing to the Minister Eoghan Murphy, requesting he amend the Pyrite Resolution Scheme to include Limerick City and County Council.
The issue was originally brought to the attention of Senator Byrne by residents living in the Meadows in Corbally, where up to 23 homeowners in the estate have been impacted by pyrite.
The much-welcomed announcement is as a result of six years of lobbying from a group of affected residents and Senator Maria Byrne, who has expressed her delight with the outcome.
Senator Byrne said: “Last year, after many years of lobbying, the Pyrite Resolution Board requested for independent sampling and testing be taken in the Meadows, Corbally, Limerick.
“This was welcome news for local homeowners, many who had feared they would have to cover the considerable expense for remediation work due to pyrite.
“Pyrite in concrete blocks can have a devastating effect on a person’s home. It is normally a harmless mineral but when mixed with concrete backfill, it can cause walls to split in two.
“The most effective remediation solutions suggested involve practically the removal of affected blockwork and the reconstruction of the houses.
“There are houses affected by pyrite throughout the county, but people may have been afraid to come forward with many homeowners fearing a drop in their home value,” added Senator Byrne.
According to the Pyrite Resolution Board if approval of the proposed amendment is granted by the Minister of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the Minister will give notice to the board of that decision and direct the board to make amendments to the Pyrite Remediation Scheme.
Following this, the Pyrite Resolution Board has the power to the amended scheme and give notice to the Minister, who shall lay the scheme before each House of the Oireachtas.
Should this be approved by the Dáil and Seanad, homes in Limerick city and county will be able to avail of funding from the Pyrite Remediation Scheme.
