Appeal for premises to facilitate face to face mica counselling


by Louise Doyle AN organisation rolling out free online counselling in Donegal for those impacted by defective blocks is calling on healthcare facilities with spaces available to rent to make contact in order to offer face-to- face sessions. MyMind is extending free counselling, psychotherapy and psychological support sessions to those whose homes have been damaged by the use of concrete containing […]


Information evening to discuss the new defective concrete block scheme


By Emma Ryan THE Mica Action Group is holding an information evening tonight to discuss the newly implemented enhanced defective concrete block scheme.  In response to a number of affected homeowners seeking information and clarity on how the revised Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme works, the Mica Action Group (MAG) is  holding an information evening on […]


Government aiming to sign off on defective concrete block scheme on Friday


THE government is aiming to sign off on the final details of the new defective concrete block scheme on Friday.  The Mica Action Group (MAG) has been advised the defective concrete blocks act 2022 was commenced by the use of Statutory Instrument on Thursday, June 22. This means the original 90/10 scheme has now ceased and is no […]


Pringle calls on Government to recognise new study on defective blocks


A DONEGAL Deputy has called on the Government to ensure National Standards Authority of Ireland takes on board new study on defective blocks. Independent TD for Donegal, Thomas Pringle, has called on Government to ensure the National Standards Authority of Ireland takes on board a new study that shows pyrite, pyrrhotite and other substances are […]


Study claims Mica not main cause of defective blocks crisis


A Scientific study has claimed that mica is not the primary issue in the defective blocks crisis. The report titled ‘The “mica crisis” in Donegal, Ireland – A case of internal sulfate attack?’ investigated the cause of the defective block scandal that is affecting thousands of homes in Donegal. The four investigated homes are located […]


Special meeting over defective blocks crisis


DONEGAL County Council is to hold a special meeting tomorrow to discuss the steps they must take to immediately help those families whose homes are worst affected by defective concrete blocks. The meeting will also discuss the steps to provide alternative accommodation urgently and to seek an update on a recent meeting with the Minister for […]


Funding announced for defective block home owners


The Government has today announced a grant of €15,000 for accommodation costs for those in immediate need of rehousing, due to defective blocks. A further grant of €5,000 was also announced for storage costs. These grants are being made available by Donegal County Council on the submission of relevant documentation. Advertisement Welcoming this announcement, Cllr. […]


Conference hears ten community centres have defective blocks


TEN community centres in Donegal have defective blocks but committees are afraid to go public as it could render their facilities uninsurable, a conference has heard. The stark figure came to light during a defective blocks convention held in the Clanree Hotel this week which looked at the scientific and social impacts of mica and other materials. Ray community centre […]


Homeowners share heartbreaking stories at the Defective Blocks Conference


Eileen McLaughlin Long from Inch Island thought she was building her forever home in 2005 until cracks began to appear ten years later. The word mica was becoming more common as the cracks grew wider and wider. After finally getting the money together for core testing the results of Eileen’s home were classed as full […]