The latest report from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) paints a bleak picture for first-time buyers, according to Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan.
Deputy O’Callaghan, who is the party’s housing spokesperson, said:
“The cost of buying a home in Ireland has increased by 7.3 per cent in the 12 months to March 2024. The median price of a home is now €333,000, rising to a staggering €446,000 in Dublin.
“None of this will come as any surprise to those looking to buy their first home who are only too aware of the Government’s failure to get to grips with the housing crisis.
“It’s no wonder that home ownership has fallen to its lowest level in more than 50 years. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are rapidly turning Ireland into a nation of renters.
“While paying lip service to making housing affordable, they regularly vote down the solutions to make it a reality.
“This evening, the Social Democrats will give the Government another opportunity to support the construction of genuinely affordable homes by putting forward an amendment to create a specific zoning for affordable housing.
“This is a key feature of housing delivery in Vienna, one of the most affordable places to live in Europe.
“It’s time for the Government to put party politics aside and take on board practical solutions.
“If they are in any way serious about making housing affordable, they will support this amendment.”
May 15, 2024