Delays in tackling Mayo's defective houses 'a scourge on people's lives'

Hundreds of homeowners continue to be affected by the defective concrete blocks scandal.

Senator Mark Duffy wants an explanation why it is taking so long to address the issues.

He hit out: "It has been the scourge of people's lives and has brought financial and mental health challenges to every homeowner who has been negatively impacted by it.

"There is a commitment in the programme for government for a review of the scheme.

"I ask the Minister for Housing to provide an update on how he plans to move forward with this review.

"As matters stand, improved supports have been provided.

"But the system needs to be much more flexible to suit the needs of each individual homeowner because every situation is different.

"Boundary walls could be affected or work on a semi-detached house might not be able to proceed because of an issue with the neighbouring home.

"Myriad issues need to be addressed. We need to put the homeowner at the centre of this and work back from there.

"I want this matter dealt with head-on and deliver for all these affected homeowners and communities who have been devastated by the scourge of pyrite and mica in defective concrete blocks."