Irish Examiner view: Cutting back on flats and standards

Lessons must be learned from past mistakes

James Browne, the housing minister, is to suggest changes to the laws governing the building of apartments, but cutting the size of studio apartments is bound to catch the eye. Picture: Stephen Collins / Collins Photos

The ongoing housing and accommodation crisis continues to seep into all areas of life, and we seem no closer to finding a resolution. The crisis is of such proportions that it appears almost impossible to find an approach that may make a difference, with the latest idea from the Government a proposal to reduce apartment sizes.

James Browne, the housing minister, is to suggest changes to the laws governing the building of apartments, but cutting the size of studio apartments is bound to catch the eye — the aim is to reduce the minimum size of a studio apartment from 37 sq m to 32 sq m.