Louth TD welcomes new rules to clarify social housing eligibility

Clarity on eligibility criteria for social housing applicants which are similar to the requirements for social protection supports are welcome and will eliminate ambiguity, a Louth Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Paula Butterly said legislative changes brough to Cabinet will help speed up the decision-making process around the provision of social housing with a clear set of criteria for applicants and Local Authorities.

The Louth TD, who is a member of the Oireachtas Housing Committee, said: “Changes to the General Scheme of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 will mean those applying for social housing will have to demonstrate they have a long-term right to reside in the State and have a long-term intention to remain in the State.

“This will bring eligibility criteria largely in line with how social protection supports are provided. These changes were subject to extensive legal advice and will clear up ambiguity at a time when there is significant demand on housing supports.

“Fundamentally it means requirements for all household members to satisfy habitual residency is important and means that social housing recipients will have proven close with the State, will have been living in Ireland for some time and intend to stay in Ireland for the foreseeable future.

“Other rule changes mean that local authorities will no longer be required to assess households for homeless supports unless they are legally and habitually resident in the state.

“The changes mean there is a more robust statutory framework in place and a more consistent approach in the provision of social housing supports,” Deputy Butterly said.

She said Government is making decisions every week that will increase housing supply to help more people become homeowners and make accommodation more affordable.

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“We’re providing more money than ever for the delivery of social and affordable homes and  increasing the amount of land available for housing by directing local authorities to revisit their development plans and zone more land for homes.

“Funding is also being provided to ensure better coordination for the delivery of infrastructure like water and energy to service land that can support the building of the thousands of homes we need.

“We are making significant inroads on the provision of housing and providing a clearer framework for delivery and supports will build upon that progress,” Deputy Butterly concluded.