Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 March 2026
1008. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will revise the Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011, amended in June 2016, to account for the cost-of-living crisis and the development of residential areas in Bands 2 and 3; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18528/26]
View answerThe baseline income thresholds increased by €5,000 for all local authorities with effect from 1 January 2023. The thresholds thus increased to €40,000, €35,000 and €30,000 for Bands 1, 2 and 3 respectively. These thresholds are net income thresholds, i.e. gross household income less income tax, PRSI, Universal Social Charge and Additional Superannuation Contribution.
My Department has been examining the existing income limits in the context of current market and household income conditions, including the suitability or otherwise of the current framework having regard to the significantly changed landscape since the standardised income limits were introduced. This includes examining the findings of research commissioned by my Department and this work is ongoing.
I am not in a position at this point to indicate the outcome of these considerations but I envisage that the analysis will be concluded early in 2026 to facilitate a final determination on next steps, which I expect will include an increase in the income limits. I am also keen to put in place a more structured and frequent process for the review of these limits going forward.
