West Cork islands 'at risk of the loss of entire communities' due to housing crisis

The islands of West Cork look idyllic but a major UCC study — incorporating the views of half the population there — points to chronic issues facing people who live on them

Bere Island. File picture

The West Cork islands are facing their own housing crisis and “there is the risk, over time, of the loss of entire island communities, and, with them, the vital contribution of the islands to Ireland’s heritage, culture, and economy”.

The co-author of new research into housing on the seven inhabited islands said they face an “existential threat” from issues such as supply, maintenance, and affordability.