350 Vacant and Derelict Homes Brought Back into Use Through Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant across Cavan and Monaghan

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Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith has welcomed the latest figures showing that more than 350 homes across Cavan and Monaghan have been brought back into active use through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

The latest statistics show that 872 applications for the grant have been approved across Cavan and Monaghan since the scheme was introduced in July 2022, with €20,740,145 in funding issued on completion of works. In the second quarter of 2026 alone, 48 grants were issued on completion of works.

Nationally, the figures show that, on average, six previously vacant properties are being brought back into active use every working day through the scheme.

Deputy Smith said:

“These figures show the difference the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is making for families, communities and towns across Cavan and Monaghan. Every vacant or derelict property that is restored is another home made available at a time when we need to increase housing supply.”

“The grant is helping people take on projects that may not otherwise have been financially viable, while also breathing new life into our towns, villages and rural communities.“

In the second quarter of this year alone, €52.6 million in grants was paid following the completion of refurbishment works, helping to return 923 vacant homes to use across the country.

Deputy Smith added:

“I want to commend Minister James Browne for his work in tackling vacancy and dereliction. Fianna Fáil has made bringing empty homes back into use a key priority, and these latest figures demonstrate that this focused approach is delivering real results for communities across the country.”

“We have to make the best use of the homes that already exist. Bringing vacant and derelict properties back into use strengthens our towns and villages, supports sustainable communities and provides more homes for individuals and families. I would encourage anyone considering renovating a vacant or derelict property to contact their local authority’s Vacant Homes Officer or visit the Department of Housing website to find out more about the supports available.”