Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
182. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his views on the provision of allocated housing for those that work in frontline public sector jobs including teachers, nurses and members of An Garda Síochána; if this is under review within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3346/26]
View answerThe Government is acutely aware of the housing challenges faced by many of those that work in frontline public sector jobs. We are working to address these challenges head on.
The Government's new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, reinforces and expands the range of existing measures being implemented by the State to tackle the issues of supply and affordability. This is enabled by a record €6 billion capital investment in 2026 alone - the highest ever capital investment in the history of the State. We will deliver 90,000 affordable housing supports over the lifetime of the plan, under the starter home programme, to provide for more affordable homes to purchase and rent.
Cost Rental is a key element of the Government's strategy to improve affordability in the rental sector and to provide secure, long-term homes for moderate-income households, including those who work in frontline public sector jobs. The core principle of Cost Rental is that the rents cover the development, management and maintenance costs of the homes. This ensures that the long-term future of the homes is financially secure, while also having rents that are not subject to the pressures of the open market. All Cost Rental projects, supported by the State, must also achieve starting rents that are at least 25% below comparable local market levels.
In line with the Programme for Government commitment to earmark certain cost rental homes for key local workers, I made the Affordable Housing Act 2021 (Cost Rental Allocation Plan) Regulations 2025, last July. These Regulations allow for Cost Rental landlords to employ Allocation Plans which may prioritise particular homes for those with a link to an area though residence, employment or education. This will support people to live and work in their local area.
My Department continues to explore further options for targeting Cost Rental homes at key workers.
