Builders warn extension of grant for first-time buyers is needed

The Construction Industry Federation’s director of housing Hubert Fitzpatrick

Builders are seeking a five-year extension of the controversial first-time buyers grant of up to €20,000 which is due to end this year.

Under the Help to Buy scheme, around 10,000 first-time buyers have got grants at a cost to the taxpayer of €147 million.

The scheme is due to come to an end on December 31 this year and the government has so far set aside no money for it to continue ...