Councillor Urges Action as Concrete Levy Funds 33% of Redress Payments

URGENT UPDATE: Cllr Joy Beard of the 100% Redress party has launched a fierce critique against the Government’s controversial Concrete Levy, which has shockingly financed 33% of the payments under the defective concrete remediation scheme. This levy, introduced by the Government, adds an extra 5% to the cost of concrete products, placing the financial burden squarely on the shoulders of everyday consumers and families.

Latest data reveals that this levy has generated a staggering €54 million, contributing significantly to the total of €166 million disbursed through the redress schemes for those affected by defective concrete. Cllr Beard argues that it is fundamentally unfair for ordinary citizens to bear this cost, while concrete manufacturers and quarries remain unscathed.

“This situation is totally unacceptable. Hardworking families shouldn’t be penalized for the failures of industry,” Cllr Beard stated during a press conference earlier today. The councillor expressed her concern that the current funding model places an undue burden on individuals building or remediating homes.

The Concrete Levy was intended to support the enhanced defective concrete grant scheme, but as the numbers show, it has inadvertently shifted financial responsibility away from the producers to the consumers. This raises critical questions about policy equity and the accountability of those who have contributed to the defective concrete crisis.

As the situation develops, Cllr Beard is calling for immediate government intervention to reassess the funding structure of the remediation scheme. She insists that it is essential to protect the interests of families and ensure that those responsible for the crisis contribute to its resolution.

With the stakes high for affected homeowners, the public is urged to stay informed as further discussions and potential policy changes unfold. The implications of this funding model could resonate far beyond the current redress payments, affecting future construction projects and homeownership in Ireland.

This story is breaking and evolving, so stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue affecting countless families across the nation.

For further details and to hear more from Cllr Beard, visit Highland Radio.