A Leitrim Councillor says an initiative he proposed that will provide grants of up to €50,000 to first-time buyers and other owner-occupiers willing to refurbish derelict and vacant homes in rural Ireland will help to breathe life back into many rural communities.
Councillor Justin Warnock was reacting to the announcement by the Housing Minister Darragh O’ Brien last week which signalled the government’s intention to introduce the scheme.
To be eligible, properties must have been built before 1993 and have been empty for more than two years. Applications for the grants will be administered by local authorities.
Kinlough-based councillor Justin Warnock says it will encourage people back into rural areas.
