Anyone considering building a one- off house in rural Ireland over the next year, can now benefit from the suspension of local development levies and water connection fees.That’s according  to Minister of State Peter Burke.

It’s among the measures introduced earlier this week by the government to address the housing crisis.

There is also an increase in grant levels and the inclusion of newer vacant properties to the vacant property refurbishment scheme. The so called “Croi Conaithe Scheme” has been both increased and expanded.

Grant levels for the scheme have increased from its current €30,000 and €50,000 respectively to €50,000 and €70,000, depending on whether the property is deemed “vacant ” or “derelict”.

Rental properties are now also eligible to apply for the scheme.

The new grant rates are to come into effect almost immediately, and will include those who have already applied.

Minister of State Peter Burke says it is envisaged that this will help bring more vacant properties back on stream, particularly in smaller towns.

He has been giving more details about the changes to the Croi Conaithe Scheme Midwest Radio's Alannah Nolan...