Rapid-build homes mooted for pyrite-affected residents
TD Alan Dillon said as many as 1,000 homes in Mayo are impacted by pyrite.
A Mayo TD has said recent reports suggest that pyrite issues are affecting up to 1,000 homes in Mayo, from Erris to Ballina and from Westport to Castlebar.
Speaking to An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar in Dáil Éireann, Deputy Alan Dillon said that figure encompasses both rural and State properties.
"These homes are showing concerning signs and cracking patterns, suggesting immediate attention is required.
‘This devastating development is forcing families to witness the demolition of their homes and to seek alternative housing solutions amid an ongoing housing crisis.
‘Over the past year, a total of €94 million has been allocated to various local authorities across the country for the purpose of constructing social homes using modern methods of construction, including the rapid-build modular approach.
‘Mayo County Council has submitted an expression of interest in delivering hundreds of rapid-build homes using modern methods and technologies.
‘I have asked the government if it is possible to explore the use of rapid-build and modular home delivery as a means to provide short-term accommodation for those who are currently seeking housing due to pyrite-related problems in their own residences.
‘I certainly feel this is a political decision that should be embraced rather than a decision for civil servants to make."
An Taoiseach replied the Government can and will examine proposals made by Mayo County Council in that regard.
“Our experience with rapid-build solutions, however, is that they are never as rapid as people may believe they are. They are not much cheaper and while they may be more rapid than regular construction, they are not as rapid as people hope they might be.
‘Often, that is not about the building itself but the site because you cannot just drop a house or apartment building onto a site. It must be properly serviced and all of those things. That is often the main cause for the delay, rather than the structure itself. We will consider any proposals that are made.”
