A Government-commissioned study of how to deal with the problem of pyrite damaged homes has suggested that construction and other industries could be levied to pay for repairs to affected houses.
The report, details of which have been obtained by RTÉ News, found that more than 12,000 homes around the country are contaminated by the substance, which can cause floors and walls to shift and crack.
It is expected to cost between €40,000 and €50,000 to fix each house.
It is understood the pyrite panel also recommended that 850 of the worst effected homes be remediated as soon as possible, at a cost of around €50 million.
The panel was appointed by Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan last September, amid growing pressure from homeowners and organisations, whose properties have been badly damaged by pyrite contamination.
Its task was to identify a way forward regarding pyrite contamination in private houses through a process of engagement with industry and affected homeowners.
Pyrite is a naturally occurring substance, which when exposed to air, moisture and other minerals creates gypsum, which in turn takes up extra space.
In cases where infill materials used in the foundations of buildings are contaminated with pyrite, this can lead to serious cracking of the floors and walls.
In total, 74 housing estates have properties which have suffered pyrite contamination. The panel's overall estimate of affected houses is lower than other estimates, with some as high as 60,000.
The panel did not apportion blame for the pyrite contamination, but did find that the State is not responsible, and recommends all stakeholders should engage in addressing the problem and suggested that a fund could be set up to pay for repairs.
