Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Housing, Séamus McGrath, has welcomed the publication of new figures showing that more than 3,000 previously disused homes were returned to use in 2025 under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.
Figures released today by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage also show that the rate of grant payments has more than doubled compared to 2024, with more than 4,500 disused homes brought back into use since the scheme began.
Speaking with Marion Jammet, Director of Policy and Advocacy with the Irish Green Building Council, on the Fianna Fáil podcast Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Deputy McGrath said the grant addresses the problem of dereliction and underused buildings while also helping to increase housing supply.
He said:
“This grant strikes at the heart of the long-standing problem of dereliction and underused buildings, while acting as another important tool to increase housing supply.
“Around the country there are vacant and dilapidated buildings that can be brought back into use, creating more vibrant and sustainable communities in towns and villages.”
Speaking today, Deputy McGrath said:
“This grant hits two birds with one stone. Not only does it support homeowners to renovate and restore disused buildings, it also breathes life back into communities that have been plagued by dereliction.
“Schemes like this leave no stone unturned by bringing potential homes back into use and onto the market. We need to continue building on what works by improving schemes that have already had a positive impact on housing supply and on supporting homeowners.”
Last year Cork City and County Council received a combined 1,937 applications and approved 1,481, with grants issued on completion of works totalling €25,855,879.
Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, applicants can receive up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or former commercial building into a permanent home or rental property. Grants are paid once works are completed and the required documentation is submitted to confirm that the approved works have been carried out.
ENDS
The Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words podcast episode on tackling vacancy and derliciton featuring Deputy Séamus McGrath and Marion Jammet, is available at: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1xQYnHesEAM3a5Ghy38p1z?si=Pj_VyuImRG6xVOLl8TMXKQ
Link to Statistics: Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant statistics