Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:87. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on the cost rental tenant-in-situ scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48091/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing Schemes
Ceisteanna (87)
Freagraí scríofa
The Cost Rental Tenant In-Situ (CRTiS) Scheme was introduced as an interim, emergency measure in 2023, and it remains an important part of the Government's overall response to homelessness. Supporting individuals and families at risk of experiencing homelessness is a priority for the Government, as reflected in the new Housing Plan: Delivery Homes, Building Communities. The Scheme is designed to protect tenants in private rental homes who are not in receipt of social housing supports and who are at risk of homelessness because a landlord has served a valid Notice of Termination due to an intention to sell the property.
The new plan reflects the Government's determination to ensure that as we invest in building new homes for people right across the country, that we also ensure that those who are already in a home have the necessary supports to stay there when circumstances beyond their control change. I am glad to report that the CRTiS Scheme has proven effective in supporting tenants at risk of homelessness, and thankfully it has involved only a relatively small number of cases overall. It nonetheless remains open and is available to those who need it.
Since the Scheme was introduced, 266 households have been supported in staying in their home to the end of 2025. Under the Scheme, the relevant Local Authority conducts the initial assessment for eligibility of the tenant for this Scheme and refers potential cases to the Housing Agency. The Agency is responsible for administering and managing the Scheme on behalf of my Department.
The primary tenant eligibility condition for the CRTiS Scheme is the same as that for accessing Cost Rental housing, which is a maximum net annual household income of €66,000 for Dublin and €59,000 in the rest of Ireland. This figure is net of income tax, PRSI, USC and superannuation contributions. Where a person is deemed eligible, the Housing Agency enters into a process to acquire the property, if suitable. If acquired, a secure tenancy agreement is put in place and the tenant can remain in their home. So far, to date, just over €100 million has been invested in acquiring homes under the Scheme by the Housing Agency.
Looking to the future, my Department is seeking to find a more long-term arrangement for the management of these properties and the tenancy agreements. This will not impact on the existing tenants' security of tenure but rather will seek to bring the Scheme within the parameters of the mainstream Cost Rental sector. The Department is working to develop the mechanism for this transition, assisted by the Section 31B of the Affordable Housing Act 2021, which allows me to designate properties as Cost Rental dwellings with a tenant already in place. My officials are engaging with the Housing Agency to develop a pathway forward for this transition.
In the meantime, I will be looking to bring forward an amendment to the Affordable Housing Act to apply the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act to existing CRTiS tenancies. This is a belt and braces provision to provide protection for CRTiS tenants by giving them access to the dispute resolution mechanisms of the Residential Tenancies Board and ensure that the rental control mechanisms will also apply.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (88)
Keira Keogh
Ceist:88. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the additional support that will be provided to Mayo County Council to accelerate the delivery of turnkey and direct-build housing projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38774/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under Delivering Homes, Building Communities, the Government is targeting the delivery of 300,000 new homes by 2030. The plan seeks to significantly scale-up delivery of social and affordable homes and includes key measures to support local authorities to achieve this including:
• The new single approval process for new build social housing projects up to €200m;
• Mandating the use of standard house layouts and specifications for Social Housing;
• Facilitating the use of Modern Methods of Construction through a standardised design approach;
• Embedding the use of a Design Build Contract approach in local authorities which can deliver significant time savings
• Introducing a revamped renewal programme focused on tackling dereliction and vacancy;
• Expanding the role and remit of the Land Development Agency;
• Expanding and streamlining the operation of the Land Acquisition Fund;
• Financially incentivising local authorities to exceed annual ‘own build’ social housing targets;
• Funding ring-fenced social and affordable 'new-build' housing delivery teams in each local authority.
• A transition to a call for proposals approach for the delivery of social homes funded via the P&A CALF funding model which will enhance the suitability of homes being made available to local authorities.
• The Housing Activation Office will identify and seek to address barriers to the delivery of public infrastructure projects required to enable housing development.
The Deputy will be aware that Mayo County Council were recently approved for an infrastructure project under the Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIIF). The funding awarded to Mayo County Council is for the upgrading of the Lodge Road, Westport project. It is estimated that delivery of the upgrade will be by the of 2028. This upgrade will directly unlock lands for 200 residential units and indirectly unlock a further 300 residential units.
While short of their 2022-2025 build target to date (84%), Mayo County Council’s social housing build programme is performing well with delivery last year reaching 99.4% of their annual target. Additionally, the latest Social Housing Construction Status Report shows a strong pipeline in place in Mayo with 441 homes at various stages of design and procurement at the end of Q4 2025, including 142 homes on site.
In terms of affordable housing, approval has been granted under the Affordable Housing Fund for two projects in Mayo which will deliver 40 affordable purchase homes, with the first 5 homes already delivered.
We are also supporting housing supply through the First Home Scheme and the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. Since the launch of the First Home Scheme, 34 approvals and 14 drawdowns have been recorded in Mayo. Additionally, over 1,000 applications have been received under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, with 742 approvals issued and more than €11.7 million paid in grants to bring vacant properties back into use.
Looking ahead, the Land Development Agency has identified a Mayo County Council site in Ballina with the potential to deliver between 190 and 280 homes, providing a significant opportunity for future housing development in the county.
The Government is committed to supporting Mayo County Council to accelerate housing delivery across all available channels.
Student Accommodation
Ceisteanna (89)
Donna McGettigan
Ceist:89. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his views on the unacceptable level of homelessness among third level students revealed recently. [46898/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Supporting individuals and families experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness is a priority for my Department and Government.
Our housing plan, ‘Delivering Homes, Building Communities: An Action Plan on Housing Supply and Targeting Homelessness’ is an integrated housing and homelessness plan. The plan is based on two key pillars: activating the supply of 300,000 more homes; and supporting people to have a home of their own.
Increased supply is key to addressing homelessness. Government is focused on making sure that everyone has access to good quality, affordable and secure homes that suit their needs. Over €9 billion in capital funding will be made available for housing in 2026. Our Plan recognises that homelessness is the single most pressing social issue that we face and introduces key measures to address homelessness. Ensuring the implementation of these measures will be a priority for me in 2026.
I recognise that young people are at a particular risk of homelessness. The Government's Youth Homelessness Strategy ran from 2023-2025. I am now establishing a sub-group of the National Homeless Action Committee to ensure a continued focus on youth homelessness, to oversee the mainstreaming of key actions in the Strategy, including Supported Housing for Youth and the Shared Accommodation Scheme, and to identify new actions which should be progressed in response to new trends.
The Government has also introduced a number of homeless prevention measures. In particular, the enhanced protections in the recent rental legislation will ensure security of tenure for young people in the rental market. In addition, the introduction of a national Homelessness Prevention Framework later this year will support further developments in this area.
In relation to student accommodation, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science published the Student Accommodation Strategy 2025–2035 on 24 March 2026. The Strategy responds to the projected requirement for approximately 42,000 additional student accommodation bed spaces by 2035.
Furthermore, that Department's National Access Plan address the wider struggles and challenges for students. The plan identifies people with experience of homelessness as underrepresented in Higher Education. In addition, there are a number of supports available for students, including the SUSI Grant, the PATH 2 1916 Bursary, Student Accommodation Assistance, and the Student Assistance Fund. Over €19.3m is provided in the Student Assistance Fund to support students who have an emergency financial need, approximately 22,400 students were supported via this fund in the 2024/2025 academic year.
Departmental Reports
Ceisteanna (90)
Shay Brennan
Ceist:90. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for a report on the Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund. [48063/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Housing remains one of the most significant challenges facing the country, and meeting the Government’s target of delivering 300,000 homes by 2030 requires not just zoned land, but the infrastructure needed to activate that land. That is precisely the purpose of the Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund which I'm delighted to say will support Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council in delivering four important projects, with the potential to unlock over 9,450 homes directly and a further 13,500 homes indirectly.
The fund was launched by Government in January this year, and is managed by the Housing Activation Office in my Department. It represents one of the most significant interventions in housing delivery in over a decade with a €1 billion programme designed to ensure that infrastructure is no longer a barrier to building homes.
The interest in Call 1 has been exceptionally strong. We received 138 applications from local authorities and the Land Development Agency. Following a rigorous assessment process, I approved 82 projects last week which can unlock lands with the capacity to deliver approximately 86,000 new homes, and with the potential to unlock a further 113,000 homes on top of that. Details of the projects approved are published on my Department's website.
Importantly, every local authority and the LDA that applied received support, ensuring nationwide impact. The projects range from local activation measures in towns and cities to larger strategic investments capable of supporting housing delivery at scale.
The announcement made last week represents the first step in building a pipeline of housing enabling infrastructure to support housing delivery for many years to come.
This programme is about more than funding individual projects. It represents a new approach to housing delivery - identifying infrastructure constraints earlier, prioritising investment where it can have the greatest impact and ensuring housing and infrastructure are considered together from the outset.
Following the launch of the programme the Office is now working with local authorities to support them in their delivery of these projects and meetings in that regard have already commenced.
Question No. 91 answered orally.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (92)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:92. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current income limits that apply for social housing applicants in counties Cavan and Monaghan; if he acknowledges that the current limits deny many who cannot source a mortgage or affordable home any route to a secure home; whether he will amend those limits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47949/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
There were 567 households on the Cavan County Council waiting list on the date of the last SSHA in November 2025 up from 557 in 2024 and 381 households on the Monaghan County Council housing waiting list, up 330 on the 2024 Summary.
As I set out in response to the earlier Question from Deputy O’ Broin, 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.
Affordability and the chance to own a home is at the heart of Government’s housing policy, as embodied within Delivering Homes, Building Communities. The Plan reinforces and expands the range of existing measures being implemented by Government to tackle the issues of supply and affordability, thereby supporting the increased provision of new homes to purchase and rent.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (93)
Barry Ward
Ceist:93. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the actions being taken by his Department to accelerate the delivery of social, affordable, and cost-rental housing in the Dún Laoghaire constituency; the number of such homes currently under construction in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48263/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to accelerating the delivery of social housing and starter homes across the country, including in Dún Laoghaire. Under the new Housing Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, we are targeting the delivery of 72,000 social homes and 90,000 affordable starter home supports over the lifetime of the Plan. This will involve continuing to scale-up new-build social housing delivery and also a renewed emphasis on the construction of starter homes for purchase and cost rental dwellings.
To support accelerated delivery of new homes by the local authorities, the approved housing bodies and the Land Development Agency, the revised National Development Plan includes an unprecedented level of State-backed funding, both directly from the Exchequer and in the form of low interest loans through the Housing Finance Agency. In addition, a range of measures are being implemented, including the new single approval process for social housing projects up to €200 million, the use of standardised housing designs, greater use of Modern Methods of Construction, the expansion of the Land Development Agency and Land Acquisition Fund, and ring-fenced housing delivery teams within local authorities.
I am please to say that Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council continues to perform strongly. The Council exceeded its social housing target in 2025, delivering 134.5% of target, and achieved 102% of target over the period 2022 to 2025. The latest Social Housing Construction Status Report shows that the Council has a strong pipeline in place, with 1,401 social homes at various stages of design and procurement.
There has also been significant progress in affordable and cost-rental housing delivery. Since 2022, 981 affordable and cost-rental homes have been delivered in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, while funding has been approved for seven affordable housing schemes that will deliver a further 697 starter homes by the end of 2028. My Department is also funding 12 dedicated affordable housing administrative and technical posts within the Council to support delivery.
In order to further drive the delivery of social housing and starter homes under the new Housing Plan, local authorities, including Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, will shortly commence the preparation of new Housing Delivery Action Plans (HDAPs). These delivery plans will be informed by social and affordable housing need within each local authority area and will involve collaboration with the delivery partners, including the Land Development Agency and the Approved Housing Bodies. Once finalised, they will inform and drive delivery out to the end of the decade.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (94)
Aindrias Moynihan
Ceist:94. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an increase in Part V housing stock to be available for affordable housing schemes in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47988/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government has placed home ownership at the heart of national housing policy and our new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities. This is why we have set out in that Plan a number of different schemes to support increased levels of home ownership right across the country. As I have said many times, homes are not and should not be the aspiration for the few or the lucky in this Country, and that is why I am determined to make sure that the unprecedented level of State investment provided for in the National Development Plan and explained in the Housing Plan will have a real and lasting impact on ordinary peoples' lives.
The new Housing Plan expands the range of affordable housing measures being implemented by the Government. In particular, a new Starter Homes Programme, which is a central component of the Plan, aims to deliver an average of 15,000 affordable housing supports annually out to 2030.
On the specific issue raised around Part V housing stock, as you know, Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 requires private developers to ensure that 20% of land zoned for residential and other uses is reserved for social and affordable housing. Local authorities negotiate Part V agreements with developers in line with a range of guidelines and supports aimed at assisting them in maximising the benefits of Part V, in the context of their housing needs. The allocation of the Part V component of any development between social houses and affordable purchase houses is therefore, in the first instance, rightly a matter for each Local Authority to determine.
As we set our focus out to the end of the decade, each Local Authority will soon commence the updating of their Housing Delivery Action Plans (HDAPs), for review by my Department, setting out how the Starter Homes Programme will be implemented within their area, including details of Planned Part V affordable housing delivery. This process will ensure that we plan for and deliver the right mix of affordable and social housing according to identified needs between now and 2030.
The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) continues to be available to all local authorities, including Cork County Council, to assist towards the cost of developing affordable housing at locations where significant affordability needs have been identified. I can assure the Deputy that my Department, along with the Housing Agency and the Housing Delivery Coordination Office of the Local Government Management Agency, will continue to advise and support Cork County Council in respect of its planned response to affordable housing needs in all key urban locations within its administrative area.
Urban Development
Ceisteanna (95)
Séamus McGrath
Ceist:95. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total number of applications made under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund; the breakdown of applications from each local authority area; the overall amount of funding sought; and when allocations are expected to be announced.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48094/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
On 5 March last, I announced the new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund which, while replacing the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), will continue to build on its success to date and apply many of the key criteria established by Government in 2018 for the URDF.
As set out in Delivering Homes, Building Communities, a further €500 million to 2030 under the updated NDP has been made available for the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund. With a focus on supporting policies such as ‘Town Centre First’ and City Task Forces, the new Fund will deliver transformative and impactful projects that will regenerate eligible areas. It will also provide a greater focus on disadvantaged areas.
Round 1 of the new Fund was open for applications from 12 March until 1 May this year. Two categories of funding are available under Round 1. Category 1A funding will create a pipeline of future projects for delivery whereas Category 1B is focussed on capital projects that can deliver within the short to medium term.
122 proposals were received by my Department across both categories of funding, with proposals submitted by each Local Authority. In light of the fact that the process of assessment of these applications is ongoing, I am not in a position at the moment to provide further details of the applications received, including the level of funding sought. However, I can provide a list of the numbers of applications received from each local authority under each funding category. My Department will make this data available to the Deputy in tabular form.
I can say that the assessment process for Round 1 is expected to be completed later in the summer. I will then be in a position to share details of the funding for successful projects.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (96)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:96. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there are plans to examine the availability of affordable purchase housing on council led sites in Dublin north-west; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48184/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government has placed home ownership at the heart of national housing policy and our new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities. This is why we have set out in that Plan a number of different schemes to support increased levels of home ownership right across the Country, including all parts of Dublin.
The Plan reinforces and expands the range of existing affordable housing measures being implemented by the Government. In particular, a new Starter Homes Programme, which is a central component of the Plan, aims to deliver an average of 15,000 affordable housing supports annually to 2030. To underpin the delivery of this Starter Homes Programme, the Government is investing an unprecedented level of funding, including a number of important affordability measures, supported by an investment package of direct Exchequer funding, investment through the Land Development Agency and lending by the Housing Finance Agency.
In terms of ensuring delivery of new affordable homes where they are needed, local authorities will shortly commence the updating of their Housing Delivery Action Plans (HDAPs), for review by my Department, setting out how the Starter Homes Programme will be implemented within their area. Each local authority HDAP will be informed by identifiable affordable housing need within their area and will include collaboration with their delivery partners, including the Land Development Agency and the Approved Housing Bodies, as applicable. These plans will be completed and published by local authorities later this year.
In addition, the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) is available to all local authorities to assist towards the cost of developing affordable housing at locations where significant affordability needs have been identified. To date, 8 schemes in Dublin City Council have received funding approval under the AHF, to support the delivery of over 700 Starter Homes for purchase and 441 cost rental homes.
It is also worth noting that the First Home Scheme, which supports first-time buyers in purchasing new houses and apartments in the private market through the use of an equity share model, is also available to support eligible new home purchasers in all local authorities, including Dublin City Council.
Other measures such as the Local Authority Home Loan, the Help to Buy Incentive, the Ready to Build Scheme and the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant are also available to help make home ownership more affordable.
My Department, along with the Housing Agency and the Housing Delivery Coordination Office of the Local Government Management Agency, will continue to advise and support Dublin City Council in respect of its planned response to affordable housing needs in all key urban locations within its administrative area.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (97)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:97. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the tenant-in-situ scheme and other homeless prevention measures in Galway city and county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48289/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Ultimately, increasing housing supply is key to addressing homelessness and ensuring everyone has access to good quality, affordable and secure homes that suit their needs. To this end, my Department will make over €9 billion in capital funding available for housing delivery in 2026.
This will mainly target the delivery of new build homes, including an increase on the record 9,088 new build social homes delivered last year. However, given persistently high levels of homelessness, I have also made available €373 million under the Social Housing Second-Hand Acquisitions programme, prioritising acquisitions that alleviate and prevent homelessness.
I have ringfenced €150 million to support households to exit homelessness into permanent housing, and €157 million for Local Authority Priority Acquisitions, including last resort tenant in situ acquisitions.
In respect of Galway City Council, €6.7 million has been ringfenced for acquisitions that exit households from homelessness. Some €2.8 and €2m is ringfenced for Galway City and Galway County respectively to target Local Authority Priority Acquisitions, including tenant in situ acquisitions that will support households in the most precarious housing situations and where no other options are available.
Critically, tenant in situ acquisitions will continue to be available to local authorities as a last resort option. But, they will never be the sole, or even the primary, option.
The default first options should almost always be securing the sustainment of the tenancy with the landlord, securing alternative accommodation through the Tenancy Sustainment and Placefinder services, or allocating a local authority or Approved Housing Body tenancy via a new build home or re-let.
Supporting individuals and families experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness remains my overriding priority. I continue to meet regularly with local authorities in this regard, pressing them to do all they can, be that maximising social housing allocations for homeless households and those facing imminent homelessness, availing of the scope provided by the Second Hand Acquisitions Programme, or increasing the delivery of social housing, which is critical in addressing homelessness.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (98)
Conor Sheehan
Ceist:98. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the HAP review will be published and enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47824/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The HAP scheme continues to play a vital role in housing eligible families and individuals. At the end of 2025, over 131,600 HAP tenancies had been set up since the scheme commenced, of which there were 49,663 households actively in receipt of HAP support nationally. An average of 123 new HAP tenancies were set up each week in 2025.
Maximum rent limits for HAP were set for each housing authority area in 2016 in conjunction with the Department of Social Protection. In reviewing the rent limits, my Department worked closely with the Department of Social Protection and monitored data gathered from the Residential Tenancies Board and the HAP Shared Services Centre.
Since 11 July 2022, each local authority has statutory discretion to agree to a HAP payment up to 35% above the prescribed maximum rent limit. Discretion can be increased up to 50% above the prescribed maximum rent limits for Homeless HAP tenancies in Dublin. Local authorities also have additional flexibility to apply a couple HAP rate to single-person households. This additional measure recognises the challenges experienced by single-person households, and the fact that both single and couple households have a one-bed need.
My Department reviewed the use of these measures and their impact on the overall affordability of the HAP scheme for tenants. This exercise highlighted that the affordability and sustainability of HAP tenancies continue to be impacted by pressures in the private rental market. Therefore, I gave my approval for a review of the current HAP rent limits to be undertaken.
My Department is now nearing completion of this review of the limits to ensure there is sufficient support under the HAP scheme to assist eligible households in accessing accommodation in the private rental sector.
It is intended that the review process will conclude shortly. I will then consider the findings of the review and set out the next steps.
Question No. 99 answered orally.
Rural Schemes
Ceisteanna (100)
Aisling Dempsey
Ceist:100. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he will be bringing forward new rural housing guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48081/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As set out in the Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025-2030 Action Plan, I intend to publish a finalised National Planning Statement in of the second half of 2026 that will set out relevant planning criteria to be applied in local authority development plans for rural housing, based on the high level policy framework set in the National Planning Framework (NPF).
My Department is currently preparing a draft National Planning Statement under Section 25 of the Planning and Development Act of 2024 in order to provide consistency in the approach to rural housing across the country.
The NPS will expand on the high level spatial planning policy of the National Planning Framework, in particular on National Policy Objective (NPO) 28 which relates to rural housing. This objective makes a clear distinction between rural areas under urban influence (i.e. areas within the commuter catchment of cities, large towns and centres of employment), where the policy approach is to facilitate new rural housing for those with a local rural housing need, and wider rural areas where there is greater flexibility to build single rural housing. NPO 28 is also aligned with the established approach whereby considerations of local social or economic need are to be applied by planning authorities in the assessment of development proposals for new one-off housing in rural areas under urban development pressures.
Since the publication of the current Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines in 2005 under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (which continue to have effect in addition to subsequent clarifications and national policy changes in the NPF) there have been important changes to our planning system and our obligations under European Directives and international agreements. Due care is being taken to ensure the draft Statement will not conflict with fundamental EU freedoms, will comply with EU environmental requirements and will have due regard to decisions of the European Court of Justice.
I intend to bring a draft NPS to Government in the coming weeks setting out a proposed policy direction, and thereafter the draft NPS will be subject to assessment for the purposes of compliance with relevant EU Directives, including any necessary associated consultation, before a final draft of the NPS will be brought to Government for approval to issue.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (101)
Jen Cummins
Ceist:101. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the way in which the planning permission for Newmarket in Dublin 8 will be progressed and made affordable for a community indoor market. [48283/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under section 586 of the Planning and Development Act 2024, the Minister with responsibility for planning is precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or the Board is or may be concerned. This includes the "Part 8" process.
This precludes me from making any comment at any stage on any planning permission application relating to the Newmarket project in Dublin 8.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (102, 176, 204)
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:102. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his expectations for starter home supports in 2026 in light of the significant increase in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48066/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEamon Scanlon
Ceist:176. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on affordable home delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48067/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Sean Fleming
Ceist:204. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the progress being made on affordable housing in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48046/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102, 176 and 204 together.
There has been significant progress in relation to the delivery of starter home supports since the publication of the previous housing action plan, Housing for All, in 2021 and the passing of the Affordable Housing Act, which has provided the legislative basis for the development of the range of starter home supports . In 2025 alone, over 9,300 supports were delivered across the Starter Homes Purchase Scheme, the Cost-rental scheme, the First Home Scheme and the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. In addition, over 9,500 Help to Buy support claims were approved by the Revenue Commissioners, bringing the total number of starter home supports availed of to over 18,800.
The Starter Homes Programme is a central component of the Governments new housing plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities, which aims to deliver an average of 15,000 starter home supports annually to 2030. The programme is designed to improve access to home ownership, while complimenting and expanding existing supports such as the First Home Scheme, Cost Rental schemes and the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.
A key next step in ensuring the delivery of starter homes will be the preparation of Housing Delivery Action Plans by local authorities. These plans will replace those developed under Housing for All and will outline how the Starter Homes Programme will be implemented in each local authority area in the period 2027 - 2030. The plans will be informed by identified affordable housing need and local market conditions, and will be developed in collaboration with delivery partners, including the Land Development Agency and Approved Housing Bodies where appropriate.
My Department will continue to engage directly with local authorities, to both support the implementation of the plans and to monitor delivery progress over the lifetime of the housing plan.
In addition, qualification criteria and support levels for starter home supports are kept under regular review, taking account of developments in the housing market.
Comprehensive quarterly affordable housing statistics are published by my Department, including delivery by local authority area and delivery partner. These statistics are available on the Department's website at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/collections/overall-social-and-affordable-housing-provision/?utm_source=chatgpt.com#affordable-housing-delivery Affordable Housing Delivery Statistics
Rural Schemes
Ceisteanna (103)
Conor D. McGuinness
Ceist:103. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans for delivering affordable housing in villages and rural communities in County Waterford such as An Rinn, Ardmore, Lismore, and Bonmahon, that are experiencing pronounced housing pressures and demographic cliff edges, if not addressed. [48180/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Supporting home ownership is at the centre of Government’s housing policy and our new Housing Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities.
The new housing plan reinforces and expands the range of existing affordable housing measures being implemented by the Government. In particular, a new Starter Homes Programme, which is a central component of the plan, aims to deliver an average of 15,000 affordable housing supports annually to 2030.
Under the new plan, local authorities will shortly commence the updating of their Housing Delivery Action Plans (HDAPs), for review by my Department, setting out how the Starter Homes Programme will be implemented within their area. Each local authority HDAP will be informed by identifiable affordable housing need within their area and will include collaboration with their delivery partners, including the Land Development Agency and the Approved Housing Bodies, as applicable. These plans will be completed and published by local authorities later in the year and help determine what is needed and help drive delivery of that out to the end of the decade.
All the while, the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) is available to all local authorities, including Waterford City and County Council, to assist towards the cost of developing affordable housing at locations where significant affordability needs have been identified. So far, 10 schemes in Waterford have received funding approval under the AHF to support the delivery of over 300 Starter Homes for purchase and 22 cost rental homes.
Furthermore, measures such as the First Home Scheme, the Help-to-Buy Scheme, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the Ready to Build scheme are also available, including in more rural areas, to help make home ownership more affordable.
My Department, the Housing Agency and Housing Delivery Co-ordination Office of the Local Government Management Association continue to be available to assist Waterford City and Council to develop an affordable delivery programme. They have a common purpose to respond effectively to identified localised affordability needs in key urban locations, including where appropriate local authority affordable homes that may be delivered with the support of the AHF and Part V planning obligations.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (104)
Noel McCarthy
Ceist:104. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current number of vacant homes officers in each respective local authority; his plans to provide funding for the recruitment of additional vacant homes officers where needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48275/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Working to end dereliction and vacancy is a key priority in the Government's new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities. The Plan aims to ensure that the activities and resources used to address vacancy and dereliction are co-ordinated and effective and that legislative powers are used proactively to work to bring dereliction and vacancy to an end.
A number of structures have been established to support local authorities to tackle vacancy and dereliction. All 31 local authorities have a full-time Vacant Homes Officer in place as a key point of contact in their Vacant Homes Office, with annual funding of €60,000 provided to each local authority by my Department. The provision of central funding reinforces the capacity of local authorities to ensure a dedicated focus on tackling vacancy and dereliction.
Vacant Homes Officers are supported in their role by the Vacant Homes Unit in my Department, the Housing Agency and through the Vacant Homes Officer Network.
My Department has also provided €180,000 to each local authority to support processing Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant applications. Technical and legal support is also available to support local authorities in administering the grant through the Housing Agency.
Delivering Homes, Building Communities committed to increasing funding for local authorities to support the administration of the grant, with up to an additional €100,000 being made available to each local authority per annum. My Department wrote to all local authorities in April 2026 to advise them of the process for draw down of this additional funding, the amount of which will be based on submitted business case from each local authority.
A network of 26 Town Regeneration Officers (TROs) has also been established, working with wider local authority teams focused on town centre regeneration, supported by a National Town Centre First Office. Town Regeneration Officers are funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The Department has also made funding for staff resources available to local authorities as part of Call 3 of the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, to support their work tackling vacancy/ dereliction.
Tackling vacancy and dereliction requires co-ordination of activity within local authorities, and Vacant Homes Officers are working with Town Regeneration Officers, Derelict Sites Teams and other relevant teams to ensure a planned and proactive approach with measurement of outcomes. This is occurring in local authorities, with reorganisation of staff resources and establishment of structures to support co-ordination.
The Housing Plan's new measures build on the significant work that has been done and outcomes achieved over the past number of years, as well as improving and expanding existing schemes. These initiatives are working and vacancy levels are declining across the country.
I firmly believe the commitment Government has made to addressing vacancy and dereliction and the actions under Delivering Homes, Building Communities will continue to play a vital role in delivering homes across the country.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (105)
Paula Butterly
Ceist:105. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on engagement with lending institutions regarding the potential expansion of the first home scheme to include first-time buyers purchasing second-hand homes; the progress made to date in this regard, any timelines for decisions or implementation; the expected impact such an extension would have on accessibility for first-time buyers, particularly in the context of ongoing affordability challenges and cost-of-living pressures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46928/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The First Home Scheme is a shared equity scheme designed to help bridge the gap between a purchaser’s deposit and mortgage, and the price of their new home, within regional price ceilings. First time buyers, Fresh Start applicants and those who wish to build their first home are eligible to apply.
The First Home Scheme Designated Activity Company (DAC) is responsible for the operation and management of the First Home Scheme on behalf of its shareholders - the State, Allied Irish Bank, Bank of Ireland and Permanent TSB.
In relation to the use of the Scheme for second hand homes, the DAC introduced the Tenant Home Purchase Product in April 2023. This Product allows tenants to purchase their current rental property where they have received a Notice of Termination because the landlord is selling the property.
In addition, the new housing Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, 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. 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. Any decision to extend the Scheme would require the agreement of the shareholders.
Question No. 106 answered orally.