Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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91. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the estimated number of people who would be eligible for the cost-rental scheme if the net income limit of €53,000 was to increase to €60,000 and to €80,000. [15524/23]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The policy intent of developing a Cost Rental sector in Ireland is to support the housing needs of those on moderate incomes for whom high open market rents are unaffordable and who do not qualify for social housing supports. Under the Cost Rental model, rents are set to cover only the cost of financing, building, managing and maintaining the homes, while any properties that receive State subvention are targeted to be at least 25% below prevailing market rents. Cost Rental properties also come with the added advantage of long-term tenancies and certainty of rent.

The estimations requested are not readily available. Eligibility and income parameters are a key tool in targeting limited State resources at those who fall within the moderate income cohort and are considered most in need of affordable housing interventions. The primary eligibility condition for accessing Cost Rental housing is a maximum net household income (less income tax, PRSI, USC and superannuation contributions) of €53,000. This scheme’s eligibility criteria remains under review to ensure it remains fit for purpose in targeting support at those who cannot affordably access homes for rental on the private market.