Simon Coveney set to announce €5bn package for social housing

Some €150m has been spent on social housing since May with 800 homes now under construction. 

Housing Minister Simon Coveney is due to announce a €5.35bn package today which will provide more social housing over the next five years. It is understood the measures to increase rental and social housing stock will include looking at ways of getting local authorities to make more void housing units and derelict buildings habitable.

Mr Coveney yesterday told the Dáil the measures due to be announced will add 30% to existing social housing stock in the next five years. Private property owners will be encouraged to make houses available through a repair and leasing scheme. A separate buy and repair initiative is also being brought in to get as many units fit for use as possible.