Minister Canney welcomes Government approval of streamlined fire safety measures under Interim Remediation Scheme
Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed Government approval of significant improvements to the Interim Remediation Scheme (IRS) for fire safety defects in apartments and duplexes.
The changes, agreed by Government this week, will fast-track critical works to fire detection and alarm systems in apartment and duplex developments constructed between 1991 and 2013, ahead of the introduction of the full statutory remediation scheme later this year.
The revised approach is designed to cut through administrative and procurement barriers that have delayed urgent fire-safety works, allowing Owner Management Companies (OMCs) to progress essential detection, alert and evacuation infrastructure more quickly, while ensuring residents can safely remain in their homes pending full remediation.
Minister Canney said the decision represents a practical and important step in improving safety for apartment residents:
“These changes are about getting essential fire-safety works delivered quickly and without unnecessary obstacles. By simplifying the process and prioritising detection and alarm systems, we are enabling OMCs to act decisively and ensuring residents have reassurance while longer-term remediation progresses.”
Under the revised arrangements, the Government has agreed to:
- Fast-track critical fire detection and alarm system works
- Introduce a simplified approval and procurement process for OMCs
- Provide up to 50% advance funding to remove financial barriers
- Continue administration of the Scheme through the Housing Agency
Funding for necessary fire detection and alarm system works is expected to be provided to OMCs during 2026, with a significant number of applicants anticipated to receive funding in the first half of the year.
Minister Canney added: “This is a delivery-focused decision. Residents need certainty, OMCs need clarity, and urgent safety works need to move ahead without delay. The streamlined arrangements approved by Government will make a real difference on the ground.”
The changes come in advance of legislation for the wider statutory remediation scheme, which will address full building remediation works in affected apartment and duplex developments.