Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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Tackling vacancy is a key priority for this Government and Pathway 4 of Housing for All sets out a blueprint to address vacancy and make efficient use of our existing housing stock.

The Vacant Homes Action Plan, which I launched in January 2023, outlines the significant progress that has been made in addressing vacancy, along with the actions that are being pursued to return vacant properties back into use as homes. My Department will publish a Progress Report on the Plan in April, setting out what has been achieved in 2023 and further steps that will be taken in 2024.

Bringing Back Homes – Manual for the reuse of existing buildings was first published by the Department in September 2018. The manual was developed to support and facilitate the reuse of vacant buildings in towns and cities for residential use, with the objective of increasing the number of viable residential units. The document is aimed at property owners, members of the public, local authorities and those involved in the construction industry.

My Department expects to shortly publish a revised edition of the manual, reflecting the significant policy developments, changed regulatory environment and the grants and supports that have been introduced to support bringing vacant and derelict properties back into use as homes since its first publication.

The most efficient home to deliver is one which already exists. I firmly believe that the commitment this Government has made to addressing vacancy and dereliction will continue to play a vital role in delivering homes and revitalising local communities.