New EU report gives hope to pyrite homeowners in Mayo
Martina Hegarty, Gina Laffey, Barbara Clinton and Julie Tracey, from the North Mayo Pyrite Group, protesting in Dublin in 2021 over the Government's failure to assist pyrite homeowners. Picture: John O'Grady
Owners of pyrite-damaged homes in Mayo say they are encouraged by an EU report that has recommended 100% redress for those affected by defective concrete blocks.
The report was compiled after eight MEPs completed a fact-finding trip last November to the Northwest and met homeowners from counties Mayo, Donegal and Clare.
The report on the defective blocks stated that "preferably a new scheme should be devised" and there should be more flexibility to assist with the financial burden and costs.
Crossmolina-based homeowner Martina Hegarty, of the North Mayo Pyrite Group, said members see the report as "a first step" in getting the necessary State assistance.
Ms Hegarty had an in-person meeting with the MEPs and she was impressed that they asked people how each county was impacted. She believes that attitude was lacking in previous meetings with the Government and says it was the first time the homeowners "were really listened to and understood".
"This report has recommended to the Irish Government that the scheme has to be fit for purpose and it has to really assist homeowners," she said. "They dived into every aspect from the foundations, which are not included right now, to the financial impact and most importantly the health impact and it is not something that is talked about enough."
