The mica redress scheme is to be increased to a 100% grant, an increase from 90%, according to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O'Brien.

The minister has announced certain improvements for the mica redress scheme, more formally known as the 'Defective Concrete Block Scheme'.

He said that the core issues raised in relation to the current scheme - homeowner concerns relating to cost recovery and assurances regarding the remediated homes - would be addressed through "immediate action"; while administrative, technical and scientific issues would be addressed through legislative changes and longer-term research.

Key changes to the scheme include:

In relation to remediation options two to five, a second grant option will be available for such a home in the future if mica blockwork which was not removed as part of the initial remediation work subsequently proves to be defective in accordance with the relevant standard.

The five remediation options under the scheme are:

A new independent appeals process is set to be introduced, and the scheme will be extended beyond the current scope of principle private residence only, to also cover rental properties registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), subject to the introduction of a clawback mechanism on resale.

Minister O'Brien said that, to prevent this issue arising again, a new buildings standards regulator and a building industry register will be established.

"Let me by very clear in saying that this government will also explore all options in pursuing potentially liable wrongdoers and I will continue to work with the Attorney General in this regard," Minister O' Brien commented.