Niamh Smyth
Question:252. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54233/25]
View answerWednesday, 8 October 2025
Questions (252)
Written answers
The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government backed mortgage scheme for creditworthy applicants who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial banks to purchase or build a home. It has been available nationwide from local authorities since 4 January 2022 for first-time buyers and Fresh Start applicants. The loan can be used both for new and second-hand properties, or to self-build.
For applications to affordable housing schemes and the Local Authority Home Loan, an exemption to the First Time Buyer eligibility criteria may be applied under the Fresh Start Principle. Broadly speaking, an applicant that previously purchased or built a residential property, but is legally separated or divorced and has left the property and divested themselves of their interest in the previous property may be eligible under the Fresh Start Principle.
However it should be noted that the assessment of eligibility under the Fresh Start principle can be complex as it must take into account the specific circumstances of each applicant. In relation to specific cases, without complete information, my Department is not in a position to advise. The applicant should contact her local authority for more information.
Further details on the Fresh Start eligibility can be found on the dedicated website https://localauthorityhomeloan.ie/information/faq/eligibility/#question-4