No plan to close 'lease loophole' allowing developers get around social housing obligations

Catherine Murphy raised concerns over local authorities leasing homes from developers rather than acquiring them outright — but the housing minister said he does not intend to stop the practice. Picture: Leah Farrell

Darragh O'Brien, the housing minister, has no plans to close a loophole which allows developers to lease out properties instead of providing permanent social housing.

Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy has raised concerns that developers are getting around Part V planning obligations by entering 25-year leases with local authorities.