Housing

Housing remains a core motivation for me — I believe this generation deserves the same opportunity to own a home as past generations.

Under Fianna Fáil’s leadership, significant progress is being made to increase housing supply, support first-time buyers, and provide more affordable and secure rental options.

Housing Commencements and Planning Permission

My party's policies are driving a housing surge, with 35,358 new homes commenced in the first seven months of 2024—nearly double the number from the same period last year. Planning permissions have also increased, with nearly 38,000 new homes approved, demonstrating that our Housing for All strategy is delivering results. With a strong pipeline of new homes, we are set to build on the progress of 2023 and continue increasing delivery in 2024 and beyond.

Supporting First-Time Buyers

Supporting first-time buyers is a priority of mine. Over the past year, almost 31,000 mortgages were approved for first-time buyers, reflecting a positive trend that will help more people achieve their dream of homeownership. We remain committed to expanding opportunities and making it easier for first-time buyers to enter the housing market.

Expanding Cost Rental Options

We have led the charge in expanding Cost Rental housing, delivering over 1,750 homes with a target of 18,000 by 2030. Through initiatives like the Cost Rental Equity Loan (CREL) scheme and the new Secure Tenancy Affordable Rental (STAR) investment scheme, we are creating affordable and secure rental options across the country, making the rental market fairer for everyone.

Social Housing and Affordable Homes

During my time as a government TD, social housing delivery reached record highs, with 11,938 new social homes provided in 2023. With thousands more currently under construction, we are on track to surpass last year’s achievements. Fianna Fáil’s commitment to affordable housing is also evident, with over 4,000 affordable homes delivered in 2023—a significant increase from the previous year. The First Home Scheme, expanded under Fianna Fáil, has already helped over 1,900 buyers purchase their homes and continues to support even more aspiring homeowners.

Addressing Vacancy

Fianna Fáil is determined to reduce housing vacancy and bring more homes back into use. Over 5,400 Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants have been approved, and we are actively converting vacant commercial properties into residential units. This approach is revitalising communities and ensuring that no potential home is left unused.

Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan

In July 2024, Fianna Fáil launched the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan, expanding support for those looking to buy and renovate vacant properties. This initiative is part of our broader effort to maximize housing availability and provide more pathways to homeownership.

I am dedicated to tackling the housing crisis and ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, secure, and quality housing.

This government’s actions are delivering real results, and we will continue to work tirelessly to meet the housing needs of our community.