Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2024
444. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to implement the recommendations of the Housing Commission report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42964/24]
View answerThe Housing Commission was established in December 2021 to consider housing policy post-2030 and to provide proposals building on Housing for All. The Commission delivered on this mandate earlier this year, providing a detailed direction of travel for the long-term development of the housing system.
My department has been undertaking a comprehensive examination of the report since prior to its publication, including a detailed consideration, mapping and scoping of the Commission's recommendations. An assessment of costings and the sequencing, prioritisation, timing and practicalities of implementation is also underway. The Commission did not address these aspects deeming them matters more appropriate for Government determination. The Housing Agency is supporting the Department's work in this regard.
This is a complex piece of work, not only because of the breadth of policy areas addressed, but also the quantum of actions involved, and the complex interplay between them. Nonetheless, work has progressed well since early Summer – including a number of engagements with the Commission, with more engagements expected as we plan and progress implementation.
The current analysis will inform a shorter-term updated Housing for All Action Plan later this year, as well as a renewed longer-term strategy for the next five to 10 years, with the latter focusing on 'scaling-up' actions that will facilitate the delivery of significantly increased housing targets between 2025 and 2034. These proposals will be brought to Government as appropriate in due course.
