Report of The Housing Commission and the next housing plan

The Housing Commission’s Report is a cohesive, comprehensive and authoritative report that outlines a strategic vision and direction for creating a sustainable and affordable housing system for all our people, writes former Chair of The Housing Commission John O’Connor.

Ensuring access to decent homes that are affordable, alongside the services and infrastructure, is crucial to building strong, resilient communities. The Report is blueprint for creating a sustainable housing system.

The report was developed by a broad group of experts with deep and varied experience and knowledge in housing and related fields. It was informed by extensive research and analysis, as well as wide-ranging public consultation and stakeholder interviews across the housing system.

At its heart is one simple truth: housing must be a national priority.

The Commission’s work was focused on people and the goal of ensuring access to secure, decent homes that are affordable for individuals and families. It examined the meaningful changes required in the housing system to improve the lives of people with diverse needs and circumstances, at every stage of life. This included younger adults in their 20s and 30s striving to buy or rent a home within their means, families for whom housing remains unaffordable, those experiencing homelessness, and, indeed, future generations. The needs of our ageing population were also a key consideration.

Given the complexity of the challenges, achieving consensus on virtually all 83 recommendations and 380 actions was a major achievement.

Let me be clear on one point: we face a serious housing deficit that requires emergency action. We cannot ask a couple in their 30s to wait a decade for a home.

That is why the first recommendation of the Report is: “Recognise and prioritise Ireland’s housing deficit and address it through emergency action.”

Coupled with dealing with the housing deficit is the need for a step change increase in the level of housing supply on an ongoing basis. Additionally, there should be a targeted increase in the proportion of social and cost-rental housing to 20 per cent of the national stock, ensuring an appropriate tenure mix. A long-term commitment to stable levels of public financing will also be crucial, supplementing the funding coming from private sources.

History offers us valuable lessons. In the aftermath of the Second World War, countries such as the Netherlands and Denmark faced severe housing emergencies. They overcame them through bold strategies and long-term collaboration across political, public, and private sectors.

Their success was built on consensus and collaboration – and has endured for decades. This shows that an emergency is the opportunity to act with courage and commitment for a long-lasting solution.
The upcoming Housing Plan and The Housing Commission’s Report have the potential to serve as the foundations for a similar, collaborative national effort, built on consensus. One that can guide us out of this housing emergency and deliver fair, effective, and lasting solutions for the people of Ireland.

The Housing Plan must prioritise people and communities, with a clear timeframe of ten years. Housing delivery targets must be practical, recognising that base delivery can realistically increase by a few thousand homes annually, alongside emergency housing delivery. The plan should also emphasise consistency and certainty to ensure effective implementation. A greater focus on building competency and professionalism in the housing sector is also needed.

This is the moment to lead with unity, urgency, and unwavering resolve. The future of Ireland’s homes and the dignity of our people call for bold, collective, and collaborative action.

The Housing Commission’s Reports and appendices to the reports are available on www.gov.ie/housingcommission