Needs Analysis into the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme

Given the significant issues that have been identified over the last 24 months with the Defective Concrete blocks scheme (DCBS). It is proposed that a bottom-up approach needs to be taken to its efficacy. There is an urgent need to ‘go back to basics’ and do what should have been done at the outset and that it is to co-design a scheme with all of the key stakeholders in mind (i.e. Donegal County Council representatives, IDP, builders, engineers, suppliers, architects and those who are affected). A better understanding of these needs and communication of such to DoH and the Housing Agency via a report aims to support enhanced adoption and engagement with the scheme. This requires an urgent needs analysis to be undertaken to ascertain the key barriers and what needs done (at a minimum) for stakeholders to re-engage. The areas of cost control, the applications and payments processes are also areas that urgently need attention and better understanding. If this is not undertaken, there is a high likelihood that the new scheme may encounter similar obstacles.