Aubrey McCarthy (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. It is good news we are nearly there with the NPF but I must express concerns regarding the timing and practical implications. As I mentioned, Ireland's population has continued to grow significantly and, since the last census in 2022, it has grown by 230,000. My worry is that the data that has been published is already outdated, which will leave us unprepared to meet present and future housing demands.

Ensuring the swift implementation of the NPF, RSES and the county development plans is essential. As I mentioned, we need clear timelines but, in the meantime, will the Minister of State consider interim measures, such as allowing local authorities to release additional housing on fully serviced tier 1 lands? That would offer immediate relief to communities facing acute housing needs without undermining the formal NPF process.