Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the positive news of the increased departmental funding for supports for vacant homes officers. Having those positions on a full-time basis will strengthen local authorities in combating vacant properties. The latest GeoDirectory residential building report for quarter 4 of 2021 showed that Mayo has the second highest residential vacancy rate in the country, standing at 11.9%. For many it can be disheartening to feel locked out of purchasing a home in the area of their choice while walking around their local area and seeing examples of empty or vacant dwellings that have the potential to make the perfect home with some work. I ask again that the Government and local authorities continue to encourage property owners to bring houses back into use by registering vacant properties and by helping identify their owners, particularly in areas where there is housing need. I know that the Minister of State is very much working towards that.

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