Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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294. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government to review correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23127/26]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The Government is acutely aware of the housing challenges faced by many sectors of society. Ireland's new housing plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025- 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 for our citizens.

The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government-backed mortgage for first-time buyers and certain other credit-worthy eligible applicants who have been refused a mortgage through a regular mortgage lender or who have received an insufficient mortgage offer. The loan is for the purchase of new or second-hand residential properties and for self-builds. It can also be availed of for the purchase of homes through Affordable Housing Schemes, with the exception of the First Home Scheme. The Local Authority Home Loan is available nationwide from all local authorities. More information on the Local Authority Home Loan and the criteria for a self-build property is available at the following link: .

In addition the First Home Scheme provides finance to help first time buyers, self-builders or those making a fresh start to bridge the gap between a deposit and mortgage, and the price of a new home. This Scheme takes a percentage ownership of a home, which a customer can buy back later. For more information on the scheme visit www.firsthomescheme.ie. Specific information on the self build product for those building their own home can be found here: www.firsthomescheme.ie/faqs/about-the-self-build-product/.

Information and guidance on other affordable housing supports in place for First Time Buyers, fresh starters and other eligible applicants is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/0d279-doors-open/, and includes information on the schemes below.

• Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme
• Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan
• Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant
• Cost Rental