Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
529. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he plans to initiate a review of cost-rental income thresholds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73765/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraCost Rental is a key element of the Government's housing strategy, Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025-2030, and aims to improve affordability in the rental sector and provide secure, long-term homes for moderate-income households. The core principle of Cost Rental is that the rents cover the development, management, and maintenance costs of the homes, so that the long-term future of the homes is financially secure, and that rents are not subject to the demand pressures of the open market.
The primary eligibility condition for accessing Cost Rental housing is a maximum net annual household income (less income tax, PRSI, USC, and employee pension contributions), which is currently set at €66,000 for homes in Dublin and €59,000 elsewhere.
The 2025 Programme for Government includes a commitment to "keep the income criteria for cost rental under review". In line with this commitment, the parameters for Cost Rental eligibility are kept under review by my Department, in order to ensure the scheme effectively targets the intended tenant cohort.
