Leo Varadkar: Ireland has a shortfall of 250,000 homes

Taoiseach said at least 40,000 new homes are needed every year and that construction is ramping up to that target

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar told his party that getting local authorities to buy up more rental properties will be an enormous job. File picture: Niall Carson/PA

There is a shortfall of approximately 250,000 homes in the country at present, the Taoiseach has told his party.

Leo Varadkar said it will take a long time to close the gap in terms of housing supply but said he believes the corner can be turned this year.