A break is on the way for people who find themselves caught in the 'pyrite trap'.
Pyrite is a naturally occurring mineral which can cause serious structural damage to homes - if it finds it's way into the infill that's used to make a building's foundations. It's unstable and shifts, and can cause damage over time.
Properties affected by pyrite have been identified in Meath, Kildare, Offaly and Dublin - leaving home-owners in the so-called 'pyrite trap' - buying during the boom - and now finding themselves with a damaged building that's potentially difficult to live in or sell on.
Later today the government will announce details of a scheme to help - and 12 and a half thousand affected homeowners should find out how repair works will be funded - when the Environment minister announces details of a remediation scheme.
It's hope the scheme could be put to the Dail by Christmas.
