Councillor Beard seeks rapid-build homes for Defective Block families

Councillor Joy Beard of the 100% Redress Party is calling for Donegal to be included in Government discussions about the future use of the State’s rapid-build modular housing stock.

The South Inishowen Councillor has asked the Housing Minister James Browne to examine whether suitable existing units could be redeployed to Donegal when they become available, or whether a dedicated rapid-build housing programme could be established to accommodate displaced homeowners and social housing tenants.

“Donegal is facing a humanitarian crisis caused by defective concrete blocks alongside an acute housing crisis,” said Cllr Beard.

“Families are trapped in deteriorating homes with serious structural problems, damp and mould. They know they need somewhere safer to live, but suitable alternative accommodation simply is not available.”

“We cannot magically make homes appear. Providing a grant for temporary accommodation does not solve the problem when there are no homes available to rent.”

Government discussions are ongoing about the future use of the State’s rapid-build housing units. March 2027 has been identified as the current timeframe for residents under existing arrangements, although this does not mean that all modular units will automatically become available at that time.

Cllr Beard said Donegal's accommodation needs must be considered before decisions are made about the future allocation of the units.

“These homes represent a substantial public investment. Where suitable units become available, their potential use in Donegal must be examined urgently. Where relocation is impractical, Government should examine delivering the same rapid-build model here.”

“The need for safe accommodation in Donegal is every bit as urgent. Families living with defective concrete blocks must be part of this discussion.”

The Buncrana councillor also expressed disappointment that a response from the Housing Minister to her proposal did not address modular housing or her request for a meeting.

In a letter dated October 28, 2026, Minister Browne outlined accommodation funding of up to €16,500 and stated that the social housing remediation scheme obliges local authorities and approved housing bodies to rehouse tenants where necessary while remediation works are taking place.

However, Cllr Beard said the response failed to address the practical difficulties facing families who need somewhere to live during repairs or rebuilding.

“The Minister has outlined the funding arrangements, but he has not answered the practical question: where are families supposed to go?” she said.

“Donegal County Council needs actual accommodation to move tenants into when remediation begins. Private homeowners also need somewhere to live while their homes are repaired or rebuilt.”

“We also need a clear accommodation pathway for households whose homes become unsafe before remediation can commence. Their need cannot be put on hold.”

Cllr Beard is warning that continued delays in providing suitable alternative accommodation could have serious consequences for families living in properties affected by defective concrete blocks.

“I am deeply concerned that lives could be lost if families remain in structurally unsafe or unhealthy homes because there is nowhere else for them to go. We must act before a tragedy occurs.”

“The Minister has been told repeatedly about the conditions people are enduring. We now need direct engagement and a practical plan.”

Cllr Beard is seeking an urgent meeting with the relevant Ministers, Government officials and Donegal County Council representatives to assess accommodation needs, identify suitable serviced sites and establish a delivery timetable.

She is also appealing to Senators to raise the issue in the Seanad and support Donegal's inclusion in the ongoing Government discussions.

“Families need safe homes to move into. An accommodation allowance alone cannot provide that. Donegal needs a plan backed by homes, funding and urgent delivery.”