The Mica Action Group (MAG) has sent an extensive list of Mica/Pyrite homeowners’ questions to Housing Minister, Darragh O’Brien.
The group decided to contact the minister in the absence of homeowner reps being invited to form part of the Expert/Stakeholder Groups working on the Revised Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme.
The 13-page document raises questions about issues, they feel, have currently not been addressed, or matters that require much greater clarity and detail.
Despite assurances from Minister O’Brien that homeowner reps would have a seat at the table of a Stakeholder’s Group, the invitation has not yet transpired.
Based on homeowners’ experience of the 2020 scheme where terms, conditions and operational details were worked out behind closed doors in Leinster House, the campaign group feels the way forward to secure a successful outcome has to be a more collaborative approach.
Michael Doherty, Mica Action Group PRO, said they are extremely disappointed that homeowner reps have not yet been invited to form part of the Expert or Stakeholder Groups.
“This is contrary to what we were promised,” Mr Doherty said.
“We have therefore pulled together a comprehensive list of Homeowners’ Questions, with input from affected homeowners, which government must address. The scope and quantity of questions, as yet unanswered, underlines the scale and complexity of the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme. It also reinforces the urgent need for a clear and detailed understanding of every phase by government to ensure efficient and successful operational outcomes, as well as the comprehensive overview required to underpin effective legislation.”
Michael Doherty (left) with Paddy Diver.
A key issue that led to the failure of the current scheme, Mr Doherty added, was the presentation of the terms by government as a ‘fait accompli’.
“Homeowners were excluded from input, whilst those drawing up the operational detail did not understand the realities and complexities of the crisis. It is vital there is learning from this experience and it is not repeated. There is a huge body of expert knowledge amongst homeowners and also key personnel in the local council who live and breathe these issues every day. We understand the intricacies of what works and what doesn’t. We have more at stake than anyone in this process, so it seems mad that we are not in the room with the other parties. We have been offered a homeowner liaison. While there is great respect for the individual put forward, it feels like government is holding us at arm’s length and our concern is that it will lead to Homeowners’ Questions Dispatched to Minister Darragh O’Brien.”
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