Clare Homeowners Willing To Go To European Courts Over Pyrite Controversy

Picture © Clare Pyrite Action Group

Clare homeowners adversely affected by pyrite in their houses say they may consider taking their claim for full state redress to the European courts.

They’re among a number of campaigners who are marching in Dublin today to highlight what they say are inadequate supports being provided by the state under the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme.

Clare FM’s Sally-Ann Barrett reports.

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Homeowners from a number of counties have descended on the capital today to protest over what they claim are inadequate supports provided by the state under the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme.

They want to see 100 per cent state redress to fix structural issues in their homes.

At the moment the scheme only covers Donegal and Mayo and Clare homeowners who have had to deal with defects in their home are still attempting to be recognised in any overall scheme.

Test results on five homes in Clare came back positive, but the Clare Pyrite Action Group say they’ve identified 50 homes that are affected and that they believe that’s only the tip of the iceberg.

Dr Martina Cleary, founder of the Clare Pyrite Action Group, says if homeowners in this county aren’t given appropriate address, they may take their case to Europe.

The Cabinet was due to discuss the matter today and speaking on his way into the meeting, Taoiseach Micheál Martin reassured that the Government will refine and improve the current scheme for homeowners affected.

But a housing expert says there could be a repeat of the controversy due to the failure to regulate the building industry.

Housing lecturer at Technological University Dublin Lorcan Sirr says more oversight of the construction sector is needed.