A scheme which supports the refurbishment of vacant properties in towns across Ireland is set to be extended.

The extension of the Croí Cónaithe scheme was confirmed in Leinster House yesterday, 06 October.

Under the scheme, grants of up to €50,000 are available to bring a property back into use as a principal private residence.

Fine Gael Senator John Cummins said: "The target is to bring 2,000 derelict or vacant homes back into use by 2025 under the scheme which simply isn't ambitious enough. We should be aiming to bring in a multiple of that. The expansion of Croí Cónaithe from towns to cities and rural areas is the right step to take.

"We need to ditch the red tape and simply open it up to any vacant or derelict property, no matter where it exists. The time for not supporting the expansion of the scheme to one off, rural and urban derelict properties needs to be consigned to the bin. We all know this is where some of the very best value can be achieved for home buyers.

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"The public have seen what is possible from TV programmes such as 'Cheap Irish Homes', 'Room to Improve' and the 'Great House Revival' and the appetite is there to see such properties being restored to their former glory for future generations."

The decision to extend the eligibility for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was confirmed in the Seanad today and is expected to be in place for November.

"This is something which all my colleagues in Fine Gael sought following the launch of the scheme. I welcome the decision which has been made and thank Minister Peter Burke for the proactive and speedy decision which has been taken on this matter.

"The scope is now there to bring in far more than the 2,000 properties by 2025. I know young individuals and couples in particular, will welcome this change.

"It will unquestionably have a really positive impact on rural and city centre communities. When the vacant property refurbishment grant is combined with SEAI grant assistance, it makes taking on a vacant or derelict property a far more attractive option," Senator Cummins said.