Legislation to target developers ‘hoarding’ land

Developers who are holding onto unused land that could be used for vital housing for people at risk of homelessness in order to benefit from a growing economy are set to be tackled by new Government legislation.

Environment Minister Alan Kelly confirmed the move as he criticised local authorities for failing to “step up to the mark” in his attempts to address Ireland’s housing shortage.

Speaking on RTÉ radio after visiting a homeless organisation in Dublin, Labour’s deputy leader said the “what we have we hold” approach from some developers is damaging moves to overcome existing difficulties.