Barry Heneghan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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654. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will introduce schemes that encourage mutual home ownership model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17648/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Housing for All delivers on the Government's commitment to step up housing supply and put affordability at the heart of the housing system.

It is my understanding that the mutual home ownership mode referred to refers to one where, instead of individuals owning their own homes, all the properties on a development are owned by a co-operative society. This is not a current policy of the government. However, it is of course open to individuals or organisations to pursue such a model should they wish to do so.

There are two shared equity schemes currently available to support the affordable purchase of homes to eligible applicants.

The First Home Scheme is operated by a Designated Activity Company (DAC), governed by a Board of Directors comprising representatives of the scheme funders, i.e. the State, AIB, Bank of Ireland, and Permanent TSB. As such, any expansion of the scheme would be a matter for consideration by the First Home Scheme DAC and its Board.

Under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme (LAAPS), affordable homes are made available by local authorities, with the focus on new-build homes in order to increase supply in those areas where affordable homes are needed most. LAAPS is governed by the Affordable Housing Act 2021 and its associated Regulations (S.I. 20/2023, and S.I. 21/2023).

Under the Programme for Government published in January 2025, the Government committed to introduce a new, all of government, national housing plan to follow Housing for All. My Department is currently examining that commitment, its implementation and the potential timeframe. The introduction of any new measures would be considered as part of this broader process being undertaken.