Delivery of social housing in Longford-Westmeath “evidence of the government’s inability to fix the housing crisis”

The government is facing accusations of “failing to deliver social housing” after new figures showed that 5,092 people across Longford-Westmeath are on social housing lists or in receipt of Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

The report, published by the Parliamentary Budget Office, estimates that the number of social homes across the state must be increased 56% to meet the current deficit.

Sinn Féin TD Sorca Clarke says the remedy for the problem is “a change of government”.

Deputy Clarke said a Sinn Féin Minister for Housing implementing the party's housing plan is the answer to the problem: “Figures released this week show that 5,092 people across Longford-Westmeath are on housing lists or in receipt of HAP. This is further evidence of the government’s inability to fix the housing crisis and their failure to deliver social housing for those who need it.”

The Sinn Féin TD says this is at odds with the government's position: “Only last month Taoiseach Simon Harris inexplicably claimed that a sufficient volume of social housing was being delivered.

“These figures rubbish the Taoiseach's claim, and show just how out of touch he and his government are when it comes to their failures to address the housing crisis.”

Deputy Clarke said the government stance is in contradiction of the experience of those seeking housing: “None of this will come as a surprise to those struggling to put a secure and affordable roof over their heads. Fine Gael has been in government for 13 years, Fianna Fáil have been propping them up for the last eight years.

“Last week alone, three independent reports were released by the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland, the Central Statistics Office and Savills. These reports once again highlighted that the government’s housing plan is not working.”

The Longford-Westmeath elected representative said the housing issue remains a number one priority: “The three reports highlight sky high house prices, chronic undersupply and the growing affordability challenge for working people looking to rent or buy a home.

“During all of that time, house prices, rents and homelessness have risen to historic highs. Meanwhile, the delivery of social and affordable homes has been unacceptably low.

Deputy Clarke concluded by reiterating her party's position: “Sinn Féin has an alternative housing plan that will prioritise the delivery of social and affordable housing to the level required. That's why we need a general election, a change of government and a Sinn Féin Minister for Housing."