Rory Hearne (Dublin North-West, Social Democrats)
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243. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the status of the implementation of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions Act) 2024 to earmark certain cost rental units for local key workers; the number of units his Department intends to earmark for key workers per year; the location of the housing units; the cost per unit; the timeline for when these units will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22059/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The Government is acutely aware of the housing challenges faced by many sectors of society. Housing for All, Ireland's housing plan to 2030, contains a suite of actions that have, and continue to, increase the provision of housing through accelerating supply and increasing the affordability of homes.

My Department is currently exploring options for the setting aside of certain Cost Rental units for key local workers as set out in the Programme for Government. This includes considering opportunities to build on the legislative changes brought in last year.

The Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 included new provisions relating to the Cost Rental sector which are likely to improve access for certain cohorts, including those who may be categorised as key workers. The changes will allow cost rental providers to prioritise such homes for those with a link to an area through previous residence, place of employment, or children’s education. It will also make it easier for friends and work colleagues to come together to access Cost Rental by sharing the rent . This will support people to live and work in their local area.

My Department is developing the required legal and policy framework, including regulations, to provide for the implementation of these changes to Cost Rental.