Portlaoise: Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín delivered a strong criticism of government policies while addressing the party’s Ard Fheis in Portlaoise, highlighting issues such as homelessness, the housing crisis, declining birth rates, rising fuel prices and increasing taxes.
During his speech, Tóibín accused the government of worsening Ireland’s housing shortage, arguing that excessive bureaucracy and immigration pressures were contributing factors. He also claimed that the country’s population is increasing by around 100,000 people annually, placing additional strain on housing supply and public services.
Signals Openness to Coalition with Fianna Fáil
Tóibín also indicated that Aontú would seek a role in government following the next general election. The party leader said his goal is to increase Aontú’s representation in the Dáil from two TDs to at least a dozen.
He suggested that his party could consider forming a government with Micheál Martin’s party, Fianna Fáil, stating that Aontú would be open to cooperation if it gained sufficient parliamentary strength.
At the Ard Fheis, Tóibín also announced new candidates for upcoming by-elections: Orla Nugent in Galway West and Ian Noel Smith in Dublin Central.
Policy Proposals
Outlining his party’s priorities, Tóibín said Aontú would introduce stricter immigration policies while continuing to support those genuinely in need of protection. He also pledged to address the housing crisis by reducing barriers to home ownership.
The party leader pointed to delays within Ireland’s planning system—including procurement processes, tendering and judicial review—as key obstacles to housing construction. He proposed reducing VAT on home building to help lower costs for buyers.
Fuel Costs and Taxes Criticised
Tóibín also criticised taxes on petrol and diesel, arguing that high excise duties have made fuel increasingly unaffordable for many households. He pledged that an Aontú-led government would abolish toll charges on the M50 motorway, describing the toll as an unfair burden on commuters.
He further warned that planned increases in carbon tax would place additional pressure on families already struggling with rising energy bills.
“Middle-Income Families Under Pressure”
According to Tóibín, current policies have placed middle-income households in a difficult position—earning too much to qualify for social housing but unable to afford high private rents or purchase homes.
He also criticised the leadership of Simon Harris and his party, accusing the government of damaging Ireland’s social and economic stability.
Irish Samachar English News
Kindly click to join WhatsApp group chat to get important news and breaking news from Irish Samachar