Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 March 2025
96. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the affordable housing scheme in light of difficulties local authorities such as Galway County Council are having in providing affordable housing, given that the affordability gain of 15% cannot be met in certain areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14475/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFunding approvals are now in place for the delivery of over 5,200 affordable purchase and cost rental homes by 21 local authorities with the support of the Affordable Housing Fund.
This is a significant level of activity. Despite well-documented affordability and viability challenges, the arrangements in place to support local authority affordable purchase schemes are proving effective.
Funding support is available to all local authorities from the Affordable Housing Fund to deliver new affordable purchase and cost rental homes where an affordable housing need is evident. Galway County has funding approval to support delivery of 61 homes at Claregalway, while Galway City has funding approval in place for three schemes to deliver 124 affordable purchase homes. Both Local Authorities have further proposals in development.
My Department, in conjunction with the Housing Delivery Co-ordination Office of the Local Government Management Association and the Housing Agency, is continuing to advise and support both Galway local authorities in developing further affordable housing schemes that are well-aligned to their local housing market context and that respond effectively to identified affordability needs as set out in their respective Housing Delivery Action Plans.
