Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
210. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to engage with the pillar banks and the first home scheme to develop a support for first-time buyers seeking to purchase and renovate derelict or long-term vacant properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4925/26]
View answerA key element of the new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, is addressing vacancy and dereliction to bring homes back into use. Tackling vacancy and dereliction is an opportunity to provide much needed housing and revitalise communities.
Building on First Home Scheme progress to date, the new housing plan commits to engaging with the pillar banks and the First Home Scheme to develop a support for first-time buyers seeking to purchase and renovate derelict or long-term vacant properties.
In this context, I have requested the First Home Scheme to undertake the required analytical and technical work to examine the potential for such an expansion and the matter is under consideration.
To note, the First Home Scheme Designated Activity Company is fully responsible for the operation of the First Home Scheme and any decision to extend the scheme would require the agreement of the shareholders – the State and the participating pillar banks.
