By David Young and Gráinne Ní Aodha, PASenior Government figures have said that the coalition’s approach to tackling the housing crisis is gathering momentum, as some housing scheme criteria were extended. Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien said there is no “magic bullet” to address the housing crisis, but said 100,000 new-build houses since 2020 had indicated that real progress had been made. Ministers extended the rent-a-room tax relief from December 1, on an administrative basis, for those in social housing who wish to rent a room to a third-level student. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the Government was “making real progress” in tackling the housing crisis. “Our task is to focus on implementation and take whatever action is necessary to keep this positive momentum going.”Darragh O’Brien said recent figures on completions, commencements and planning permissions indicated “a positive momentum and strong delivery”.

Source: The Herald November 14, 2023 16:37 UTC