Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Housing, Séamus McGrath, has welcomed new Department of Housing figures showing that more than 3,000 previously disused homes were brought back into use in 2025 under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

The department's data also indicates the rate of grant payments more than doubled compared with 2024, with over 4,500 vacant properties returned to use since the scheme began.

Speaking with Marion Jammet, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Irish Green Building Council, on the Fianna Fáil podcast Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Deputy McGrath said the grant addresses dereliction while boosting 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.

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"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.

"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 convert a vacant or derelict house or former commercial building into a permanent home or rental property. Payments are made once works are completed and the required documentation confirms the approved works have been carried out.