Mr. John O'Connor:

The Housing Commission's report is thorough and cohesive. It outlines a vision and strategic direction for creating a sustainable and affordable housing system for all our people. At its heart is one simple truth, that housing must be a national priority. Our work was guided by a central aim, namely, to ensure that every individual and family has access to a secure, decent home that is affordable and in a good place to live. We examined the changes required in the housing system to improve the lives of people with diverse needs and circumstances at every stage of life. The report reflects the dedication of every commission member and expert contributor. I thank them for their commitment and input. Given the complexity of the issues, achieving consensus on virtually all 83 recommendations and 380 actions was a major achievement.

Let me be clear on one point. We face a serious housing deficit that requires emergency action. We cannot ask a couple in their 30s to wait a decade for a home. That is why the report’s first recommendation is to “Recognise and prioritise dealing with Ireland’s housing deficit and address it through emergency action.”

History offers us valuable lessons. In the aftermath of the Second World War, countries such as the Netherlands and Denmark faced severe housing emergencies. They overcame them through bold strategies and long-term collaboration across political, public and private sectors. Their success was built on consensus and collaboration and has endured for decades. This shows that an emergency is the opportunity to act with courage and commitment for a long-lasting solution. The Housing Commission’s report has the potential to serve as the foundation for a similar collaborative national effort built on consensus, one that can guide us out of this housing emergency and deliver fairer, effective and lasting solutions for the people of Ireland.