By Letara Draghia •
Updated: 20 Aug 2024 • 15:13 • 1 minute read
Ireland is currently experiencing a severe housing crisis, exacerbated by a surge in population and a corresponding shortfall in available housing.
The imbalance has reached alarming levels, with nearly four people competing for each available property.
Ireland’s population growth
The rapid population growth in Ireland, rising from 3.6 million in the mid-1990s to 5.1 million today, has not been matched by an equivalent increase in housing construction. David Hall, CEO of iCare Housing, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “We have failed to stem that flow and failed to build appropriate social homes to allow them the dignity of being able to be housed.”
Observers and critics argue that the government s response to this crisis has been inadequate, despite assurances from officials. Housing Minister, Darragh O’Brien, acknowledged that for much of the last decade, housing construction has lagged. However, he also pointed out that recent efforts under the Housing for All plan have started to bear fruit, with housing targets being exceeded in the past two years. Darragh O Brien emphasised that the government is now delivering “private, really good social housing… at a rate we haven’t seen for over 50 years”.
House-demand ratio in Ireland
Despite these claims, the pressure remains intense, with Ireland facing a higher house-demand ratio than countries such as Spain, the UK and Germany. Per capita, the demand for housing in Ireland is twice that of Australia, a nation also known for its high levels of immigration.
As the next general election approaches, the housing crisis is likely to dominate the political landscape. The government s handling of this issue could play a critical role in determining which party will lead the country in the coming years, making it a key point of contention voters.
For expatriates living in the EU, the situation in Ireland serves as a cautionary tale of how rapid population growth, when not matched by infrastructure, can lead to significant challenges in housing and rental prices.
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