A Clare Government TD insists the ‘devil will be in the detail’ in respect of the concrete block levy.
It comes as voting will take place on a Sinn Fein motion this evening calling for the levy introduced in the Budget to be scrapped.
The concrete block levy, which will put ten percent on to the cost of concrete blocks, pouring concrete and some concrete products, has arguably been the most controversial element of Budget 2023.
The Government says the 80 million euro it’ll rise annually will go some way to pay for a redress scheme for those impacted by pyrite and mica in Clare, as well as Limerick, Donegal and Mayo.
However, there’s concern it may add between €1,600 and €4,000 to the cost of building a home, which has sparked the opposition motion this evening.
However, Clare’s Fine Gael TD admits that while some aspects of the levy need to be worked through, those responsible for defective concrete blocks still need to be pursued.
Details of the scheme will be ironed out with the publication of the Finance Bill.
Clarecastle-based Deputy Joe Carey says while home buyers need to be protected where possible, the levy will go ahead.
Meanwhile, a Clare resident impacted by pyrite is expressing frustration with the levy, arguing it’s those who caused the problem that should pay for it.
Kilkishen resident Dan Moloney claims those facing difficulties with defective concrete blocks are being abandoned.
The levy is due to come into effect in April.
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