The Irish government is preparing to announce a significant increase in housing funding next week, coinciding with discussions on the updated National Planning Framework (NPF) at the first Cabinet subcommittee meeting on housing.
The newly established housing subcommittee, comprising key government figures including the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, housing minister, and finance minister, will convene on Monday to review and potentially clear the NPF. This framework, which has faced some delays, aims to deliver over 300,000 homes by 2030 and will outline specific housing targets for each county across Ireland.
Tánaiste Simon Harris has indicated that a revised version of the Housing for All plan will be published soon, though sources suggest this may take some time to materialize. The NPF will require approval from both the government and the Houses of the Oireachtas before implementation.
New Housing Minister James Browne has been advised by his department that additional funding is crucial to maintain momentum in social housing construction. While the target for social housing builds in 2025 stands at 10,000 units, there are growing concerns about potential shortfalls in delivery.
According to The Journal, the funding announcement comes amid criticism from Sinn Féin’s housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin, who has raised concerns about delays in Department of Housing approvals for social and cost rental projects. Local authorities are expected to respond with plans showing how their zoning decisions will help meet these new targets.
Additionally, the government is facing scrutiny over proposed changes to the rent pressure zones (RPZs), with a review of the scheme expected to be published by the end of March. The comprehensive housing strategy reflects the government’s attempt to address Ireland’s ongoing housing challenges through increased funding and coordinated planning efforts.