Hardware Association welcomes fast tracking of Home Renovation Tax Incentive Scheme

HAI believes the early introduction supports the spirit and intention of the scheme by promoting activity within the sector immediately and not creating a vacuum, which had seriously concerned members.

According to HAI CEO, Jim Copeland: “The early start date will allow projects to begin and in some cases be completed in time for Christmas, which may be a determining factor for the work to proceed in the first place.

“Traditionally a substantial amount of work, such as replacement kitchens, bathrooms, windows, new flooring, wall and attic insulation and painting – jobs which can be completed during a 4-6 week period or less – is carried out during the run up to Christmas,” he added.

HAI also welcomes the proposed introduction of a Register of Builders and Contractors, announced by the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan TD yesterday, but cautions rigorous enforcement is required.

“The register of Contractors is a positive development as it seeks to tackle the shadow economy and bring in contractors and projects to the legitimate trade, which benefits all.

“However, rigorous enforcement must be prioritised to ensure that compliant builders are not penalised over those who don’t support the initiative. It should be a positive point of difference for those registered,” he added.

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is the national representative body for Hardware, Builders’ merchants, DIY, Homewares, Garden and Agricultural suppliers, at retail, wholesale and manufacturing level. The HAI currently represents an industry employing over 20,000 people throughout the country. The HAI is a truly representative body, monitoring the interests of independent retailers with single outlets as well as larger national retailers with outlets nationwide.

The HAI represents members’ interests at all levels to Government, semi-state and regulatory bodies and is also a reliable source of industry information for government, consumers, media and other interested parties. The Association is a nominating body for elections to Seanad Éireann and is affiliated to the International Federation of Hardware & Housewares Associations (IHA). It is also a member of the European Association of National Builders Merchants Associations (Ufemat).

For further information contact Jim Copeland 087 667 1361 or Caroline Heywood (01) 6613515 or 086 2476 477