The latest ‘Locked Out of the Market’ report published by the Simon Communities of Ireland shows that current policy is failing our communities, according to Social Democrats candidate for Galway West Míde Nic Fhionnlaoich
Míde said:
“It is terrifying that, as of the end of December, no properties were available under Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) thresholds in Galway city or the suburbs, and only 31 rental properties were available at any price point.
“Our city is at breaking point, and it’s clear that not only is supply an issue, but lack of affordability is locking people out of getting a home of their own to buy or rent.
“Galway City acquired just 19 new social homes between January and August 2025. With 4,151 households on the Galway City social housing waiting list, we know that’s not enough.
“What future are we offering the people who call Galway home if the promise of a roof over their heads has been reduced to a fantasy?
“We need proper management of the housing market, and we need housing policy that recognises housing as a human right, not an asset for investment funds while people live in constant fear of homelessness or rising rents.”
February 16, 2026