Housing list frustrations for councillors
A new housing development called Hunters Hill should be allocated to those on the social housing list for more than seven years, according to Cllr Malcolm Byrne at last week’s Gorey Municipal District meeting.
After the housing report by Niall McCabe from Wexford County Council, Cllr Byrne requested the council look at giving these new houses to people who have been on the list longer than others, regardless of some priorities.
Cllr Byrne put a motion forward stating a review should be done on the system of housing allocation to those on the list for a long time. Mr McCabe said he understands and he will do his best to get a review.
‘I understand the allocation policy but we now have additional houses in Gorey,’ said Cllr Byrne. ‘I am just asking these houses be given to those families who have been waiting and not getting anything.’
Mr McCabe explained it is a priority based list, not time based.
‘These families are living and working in Gorey for quite a long time,’ said Cllr Byrne. ‘All I ask is that there is a review in terms of housing now available and see if we can give it to them.’
Cllr Robbie Ireton said to a certain degree I agree with Cllr Byrne.
‘I cam across one family who are 11 years on the list,’ said Cllr Ireton. ‘It is crazy they have to wait that long, but I do understand we and others are going through rough times.’
Cllr Mary Farrell agreed with Cllr Byrne and said it is an unfair system that needs to be looked at.
‘What is the point being on the list if after seven years without a house you don’t matter,’ said Cllr Farrell. ‘It is a poor system to operate with.’
Cllr Anthony Donohoe did not agree with fellow councillors and said the council should be sorting out the families living in emergency accommodation in Wexford first before people who have a home.