Wexford’s Inclusion in Defective Blocks Scheme Welcomed

North Wexford Deputy Fionntáin Ó'Suilleabháin has welcomed the announcement that County Wexford has been added to the government’s scheme for homeowners affected by defective blocks, a measure aimed at helping those with properties that are unmortgageable, uninsurable and unsellable.

The scheme will assist homeowners who have been dealing with severe damage to their homes due to defective blocks made by an unregulated concrete industry. These blocks, which were passed off as meeting EU quality standards, have caused significant structural issues in homes across Wexford, particularly in the Bunclody and Ferns areas.

Speaking in the Dáil about the issue Deputy O'Suilleabhain recalled how during his time on Wexford County Council, a motion addressing the concerns of homeowners was passed back in 2022. This motion was driven by the many families in the region struggling with the issue.

Among the families affected is Seán and Rachel Murphy, who first noticed small cracks in their new home near Ferns six months after moving in. Over time, they began to realise the extent of the problem. Seán described the damage as “almost like an earthquake took place underneath the house.”

The Minister also urged affected homeowners to contact Wexford County Council and seek independent testing, as the issue can often go undetected until significant damage appears.

Finally, the North Wexford TD reiterated the call that the government needs to commit to 100% redress for all affected homeowners,