Michael O'Flynn: Inflation is the root of our housing problem, not property developers 

Michael O'Flynn disputes the idea that the private sector is at fault for the housing crisis and has issued a list of questions for Rory Hearne to answer 'promptly and publicly'

There are experienced developers in this country who have weathered many economic storms and who have consistently delivered high-quality housing and who can continue to do so if steps are taken to remove obstacles. Picture: Denis Minihane

In his article on Monday, November 7, 2022, under the heading “Latest updates show Government still falling short on housing target”, Rory Hearne alleged that “the reliance on the private market to solve our housing crisis is illogical, and the hoarding of property at such a time is akin to hoarding food during a famine”. 

I have heard some of Mr Hearne’s unsubstantiated allegations in the past, but this latest barrage is a bridge too far. It is wrong and untruthful to suggest that property developers are depriving those in need of housing by deliberately holding back on what they could easily deliver.