One of the strongest responses nationally to the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has been in County Mayo, according to Minister John Cummins.
The Minister of State for Planning and Local Government told Midwest News that the grant, worth €70,000 per applicant, has seen 670 applications from Mayo, with 450 approvals to date. 83 grants, under the scheme, have now been paid out in the county.
He acknowledged that the stage payments of the grant can cause problems for some applicants, and said Government is examining that aspect of the scheme at present.
The Minister also urged all local authorities to CPO derelict properties in towns and villages that could be used for housing.
He has been speaking to Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley:
