Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 June 2026
146. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when it is proposed to increase the income eligibility limits for social housing in areas such as Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48299/26]
View answer154. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department is considering any proposals to increase the current social housing income eligibility limits; the timeline envisaged for such threshold adjustments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48269/26]
View answer164. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department will consider reviewing the income thresholds for social housing applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48114/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 146, 154 and 164 together.
The baseline social housing income thresholds are €40,000, €35,000 and €30,000 for Bands 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Cavan and Monaghan are in Band 3 which is €30,000.
These thresholds are net income i.e. gross household income less income tax, PRSI, Universal Social Charge and Additional Superannuation Contribution. Income is defined and assessed according to a standard Household Means Policy. The Policy provides for a range of income disregards and local authorities also have discretion to disregard income that is once-off, temporary or short-term in nature and which is outside the regular pattern of a person’s annual income.
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.
I envisage that the analysis will be concluded shortly to facilitate a final determination on next steps. I am also keen to put in place a more structured and frequent process for the review of these limits going forward.
