Just 31 applications have been made to a scheme which provides grants of up to €50,000.
The number of vacant homes in two midlands towns are 'concerningly high.'
CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, Caroline Hofman is making the comments after new figures from the county's Vacant Homes Office found 63 empty houses in Mountmellick, and 50 in Mountrath.
The survey also found just 31 applications have been made to a scheme which provides grants of up to €50,000 to refurbish a vacant home.
But, Ms. Hofman says there are some positives to take from the figures:
Read More: Over 100 Vacant Homes In Two Midlands Towns
Midlands Gardaí Appeal For Witnesses To Fatal Crash
Midlands Security & Defence Analyst Says Hoax Bomb Threats Aimed To Intimidate
Almost €446,000 Allocated To Midlands Community Centres And Clubhouses
Midlands Family Takes On Ireland’s Fittest Family Challenge
5K Fundraiser To Support Motor Neurone Disease Association Takes Place In Westmeath
No Slowing Down With Age As Westmeath Bowlers Shine At 14th Annual National Bowls Competition
Woman Appears In Court Over €280k Cannabis Seizure In Midlands