Priory Hall deal offers ‘a fresh start’, says Hogan

Owners of apartments in Priory Hall are holding a series of meetings this week to consider proposals to end their ordeal with the condemned complex.

Phil Hogan, the environment minister, confirmed yesterday a deal was on offer that would allow owner occupiers evacuated from the complex to walk away from their mortgages and have fresh loan approval granted to allow them to purchase homes elsewhere.

The deal would see the State foot the bill for refurbishment of the entire complex with Dublin City Council taking ownership of the apartments, except for those owned by buy- to-let landlords who will be exempt from mortgage repayments until their property is ready for rent again.