Defective concrete block campaigners have unveiled plans for a document to define what a ‘real’ 100% redress scheme should deliver.
“The Peoples’ Document” is being written by a cross-campaign group, with the aim of fixing the flaws in the government’s scheme.
The campaigners include 100% Redress represented by Paddy Diver and Lisa Doherty, Mica Action Group represented by Lisa Hone and Tricia Sullivan, Redress Focus Groups represented by Roisin Gallagher and well known campaigner Michael Doherty, former PRO of MAG.
Homeowners of Donegal are being encouraged to have their say on what they need to be inserted into the scheme. A meeting on the document will take place on 4th March 2024, 7pm at the An Grianan Hotel, Burt
Paddy Diver states, “Both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael had their chance to get this scheme right and they blew it. The campaign is still working hard for change and over the next twelve months, all politicians will have to account for their actions on the doorstep and at the ballot box, locally and nationally.”
Campaigner Michael Doherty, states, “Over the last few years, during the battle for a workable scheme, opposition politicians are on the record with their support for a real 100% Redress Scheme. Should there be a change of Government in the next twelve months, it will be time to honour their pledges and deliver.
“With that in mind, it is crucial to have clarity from all affected on exactly what a true 100% Redress looks like. Over the last few months we have been working to set out the principles of a real 100% Redress Scheme. We now have a working document which we want to bring to the people to get their feedback. This is vital as the aim is to create The Peoples’ Document – The Definition of a True 100% Redress agreed by the people affected.”
Roisin Gallagher, Redress Focus Groups states “Nobody knows what is needed to truly resolve this crisis better than the homeowners themselves, so the opportunities from an election year must be seized. By setting out exactly what is needed, sends an unequivocal message to politicians of what is acceptable.”
Lisa Hone, Chair of MAG states “Government’s failure to listen and do the work required has resulted in a scheme that is clearly not 100% Redress, ignores rigorous peer-reviewed science and leaves people behind. We continue to work hard to try to fix the flaws, but the reality is the scheme will never be right until it is a true 100% Redress which enables everyone affected to escape this scourge.”
The four principles of 100% redress, as defined by campaigners, is ‘like for like’ home rebuilds; a government managed, cost-free process; inclusive supports for all those affected; and prevention of similar crises.
The March 4th meeting will offer a deeper explanation of these four principles and provide an opportunity for public engagement and discussion.
Following the meeting, feedback gathered will be incorporated into the document to create The Peoples’ Document – The Definition of a True 100% Redress. The Peoples’ Document will then be sent to every political party and politician for their response. A follow up public meeting is planned for the 26th March where elected representatives will get the opportunity to address affected homeowners directly with their response to the Peoples’ Document.
Ms Hone said: “The politicians’ response to the Peoples’ Document will reveal very clearly where this issue sits in their priorities and whether they deserve your vote. The message to all impacted by the Defective Concrete Crisis is there has never been a more important time to be involved and ensure you are registered to vote. Your voice is your vote.”
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