Dublin: A newly released report has revealed that 776 local authority homes across Ireland have remained vacant for over a year, even as the country grapples with an intensifying housing crisis. The data, obtained by Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould under the Freedom of Information Act, shows that a total of 2,748 council-owned properties are currently lying empty nationwide.
The findings have sparked criticism of local and national government inaction, particularly given the acute demand for social and affordable housing.
Underutilised Housing Resources
Dublin accounts for the highest number of unoccupied council properties, with 750 homes currently vacant across its four local authorities. Of these, 265 have been unoccupied for over 12 months. Cork follows with 495 vacant homes, while Limerick and Kildare report 220 and 129 unoccupied homes, respectively.
Despite these numbers, the government has earmarked €366 million for the refurbishment and maintenance of council housing, with €214 million allocated specifically to Dublin. However, concerns remain about the speed and efficiency of efforts to bring these homes back into use.
Failure to Enforce Derelict Site Levy
The report also highlighted broader issues with the enforcement of property management laws. Since 1990, local councils have been legally required to maintain a register of derelict sites, and property owners can be charged an annual 7% levy on such sites. Yet, the report indicates widespread failure by local authorities to enforce or collect this levy.
Councils are currently owed more than €20 million in unpaid derelict site levies. In 2023, only €604,621 was successfully collected, and 31 local authorities remain in arrears, totalling €6.6 million.
Political Reaction
Thomas Gould TD, who represents Cork North Central, condemned the government’s handling of the housing situation, calling the continued vacancy of homes “deeply shameful”.
“At a time when thousands are desperately searching for a roof over their heads, it is inexcusable to leave perfectly good homes empty. These homes could be transformed into safe, secure housing for families in need. There is nothing more humiliating than walking past boarded-up houses in the middle of a housing emergency,” Gould stated.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp