House prices in Ireland are continuing to rise and show no signs of stopping under this Government, according to Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan.
Deputy O’Callaghan, who is the party’s spokesperson on housing, said:
“The latest Residential Property Price Index from the CSO paints a grim picture for those hoping to buy a home of their own.
“House prices have risen by 4.4 per cent in the 12 months leading up to December 2023. This has left the median cost of a home at €327,500, rising to a staggering €444,000 in Dublin.
“It is more expensive now to buy a house than it was at the peak of the property boom in 2007.
“The Government’s failure to get to grips with this crisis is turning homeownership into a pipedream for many.
“There are measures that could and should be taken to increase the supply of genuinely affordable homes to rent and buy.
“I have put forward a number of amendments to the Planning and Development Bill 2023 that would put the delivery of affordable housing at the heart of the planning system.
“These include the introduction of a specific zoning for affordable housing. This is a key feature of housing delivery in Vienna, one of the most affordable places to live in Europe.
“Zoning for affordable housing would ensure that enough affordable homes are built and that these homes continue to be affordable for future generations.
“I am calling on the Government to support these practical, workable and constructive solutions.”
February 21, 2024