Dublin: The newly announced government programme in Ireland aims to bring transformative changes to the housing and rental sectors, addressing critical issues faced by tenants, landlords, and prospective homeowners. Key initiatives include a rental price register system, accelerated housing development, and significant reforms to streamline planning processes.
Rental Reforms and Tenant Protections
The government plans to establish a rental price register system to enhance transparency in rental transactions, benefiting both tenants and landlords. The system will bolster the enforcement powers of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to prevent abuses within the rental market. Additionally, rent pressure zones will undergo continuous review to ensure fairness and affordability.
The programme also proposes a gradual increase in the renters’ tax credit, providing further relief to tenants.
Housing Development Goals
The government is committed to tackling the housing crisis by building 12,000 new social homes annually. To expedite this process, conveyancing and probate transactions will be streamlined, with all steps expected to be completed within eight weeks.
Key measures include:
- Land Price Register: A new register for land prices will be introduced to enhance transparency.
- Capitalisation of the Land Development Agency: The agency will gain additional funding and strengthened compulsory purchasing powers to acquire underutilised land for housing projects.
- Modern Building Innovations: An innovation fund will be established to encourage the use of modern construction methods and sustainable materials, such as wood, in housing projects.
The government also plans to expand and maintain schemes such as Help-to-Buy and First Homes, enabling more people to access affordable housing.
Apprenticeships and Elderly Housing
By 2030, the government aims to hire 12,500 new apprentices annually to support the housing sector. A new Starter Homes Programme will be launched across approved housing bodies in both the public and private sectors.
The programme also prioritises housing options for the elderly. The Local Government Housing Loan Scheme will be expanded to provide full mortgage options for separated and divorced individuals, ensuring equitable access to housing.
Streamlining Planning and Development
To meet its ambitious goal of building 300,000 houses by 2030, the government plans to overhaul planning and development processes:
- Staff Expansion in Planning Departments: Additional personnel will be appointed to accelerate housing projects.
- Planning and Environment Court: This specialised court will be equipped to resolve planning-related disputes efficiently.
- Compulsory Purchase Order Bill: The bill will empower authorities to develop housing on underutilised land.
- Land Audits: A comprehensive audit of both zoned and unzoned serviced land will be conducted.
Local governments will also be required to hold planning consultations before implementing major residential, community, and infrastructure projects.
The government programme emphasises its commitment to rural housing by continuing one-off housing support to sustain rural communities.
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