Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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224. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to cases whereby school teachers are forced to give up jobs due to being unable to afford accommodation in Dublin; if she has considered supporting the provision of dedicated housing for teachers and other front-line workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35022/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Ensuring that every child's experience in school is positive and that they have qualified, engaged teachers available to support them in their learning is a priority area of action for the Government.

Housing policy is a priority matter for Government, led by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.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.

Cost Rental housing is a new type of housing tenure introduced under Housing for All and is targeted at those people who do not qualify for social housing but who are facing affordability pressures on the private rental market. The Government recognises the urgent need for additional cost rental homes, and the need to ensure local key workers can avail of these homes, including teachers, for vital local services particularly in areas of high housing demand.

The Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 included new provisions related 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 mean that amongst other things cost rental providers may prioritise homes for those with a link to an area though previous residence, place of employment, or children’s education. This will support people to live and work in their local area.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage 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 exploring opportunities to build on recent legislative changes brought in by the Minister last year. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is now developing the required legal and policy framework, including regulations, to provide for the implementation of these changes to cost rental.

My Department frequently consults and engages closely with stakeholders on teacher supply issues through industrial relations forums, sectoral meetings, and direct discussions. I am considering further measures to strengthen the teaching workforce and ensure that schools have the support needed to provide an excellent education for every student.