Scheme to refurbish vacant properties should be 'expanded' to rural Ireland

A Local Senator is calling on the Housing Minister to expand the scheme to refurbish vacant properties in rural parts of Ireland.

Darragh O'Brien announced recently the Croí Cónaithe scheme to support bring vacant buildings in towns and villages back into use for housing.

However, Senator Robbie Gallagher said there should be a similar scheme for renovating derelict housing that is outside of towns and villages.

Speaking to Northern Sound, Senator Gallagher said he has "every confidence" that there would be "huge uptake" if a scheme of this kind was introduced, adding that it would be a "huge benefit" not only to potential home-owners but for all aspects of rural life: