The decision by the Minister for Housing to revoke funding for the regeneration of Oliver Bond flats fails to address the urgent housing needs of residents, according to Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins and Councillor Lesley Byrne.
Deputy Cummins, who represents the Dublin South-Central constituency, said:
“Residents in Oliver Bond flats have been living for years in unacceptable conditions, including severe overcrowding, damp, and mould. Despite the well-documented need for regeneration, this long-promised investment has now been withdrawn, leaving families without hope of improvement in their living conditions.
“This decision comes in the context of rising social housing rents imposed by Dublin City Council, a move that further compounds the hardship faced by tenants living in substandard homes.
“I am extremely disappointed and dismayed by this decision. Everyone knows that the conditions in Oliver Bond flats are completely unacceptable – families are living in homes that are not fit for purpose. This has been going on for far too long, and to now revoke funding for regeneration is simply indefensible.
“To increase social housing rents while failing to provide safe and dignified living conditions is despicable. The people of the Oliver Bond community deserve better, and they deserve it now.
“We are calling on the Minister for Housing to immediately reconsider this decision and to engage constructively with residents to ensure that regeneration plans are delivered without further delay.”
Councillor Byrne, who represents Dublin’s South-West Inner City, said:
“This is a devastating blow to the community. Residents have been waiting years for meaningful action, and instead they are asked to endure worsening conditions while facing increased rents. This is just wrong.
“The Government must reverse this decision and commit to delivering the regeneration that residents so urgently need.”
May 6th, 2026