Cheaper for State to build than pay rent aid

The cost to the State of paying landlords to house families is more than the money needed to build new homes, it has been claimed.

Figures released to Fianna Fáil show the State will spend over €844m on rent support this year, with average rents reaching €829 per month under housing assistance payments (HAP). These rent levels will be more costly than building a new home, after 21 years.