Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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275. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will consider broadening the eligibility terms and conditions for the first home scheme in order that individuals who, in their youth, prior to entering a relationship and starting a family, bought an apartment with a sibling (a partnership arrangement) can qualify; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38948/24]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The First Home Scheme, which launched in July 2022, is a shared equity scheme, designed to help bridge the gap for eligible first-time buyers, Fresh Start applicants and self-builders, between their deposit and mortgage, and the price of their new home (within price ceilings established across the country).

The eligibility criteria for the First Home Scheme, including in relation to the Fresh Start Principle, is in line with housing policy as set out under Housing for All and aligned with the eligibility criteria for other affordability measures.

The 'Fresh Start' principle is applied across a number of affordable and mortgage schemes run by my Department such as the Local Authority Home Loan and the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme. Currently only those who have experienced separation, divorce or bankruptcy/insolvency are eligible under the Fresh Start principle.

The First Home Scheme Designated Activity Company is responsible for the operation and management of the First Home Scheme on behalf of its shareholders - the State, Allied Irish Bank, Bank of Ireland and Permanent TSB. Full details are available on the First Home Scheme website, .