Housing shortage?

Dear Editor,

The CSO 2016 figures registered 183,312 vacant residential homes in Ireland. With this number of vacant homes, I would argue we do not have a housing shortage. What we do have is an under utilisation of existing houses. Local authorities seem shy to use the Housing Act 1966 section 78 (1) to Compulsory Purchase vacant properties. I believe the government should set up a task force to CPO the vacant properties.

Some of the many benefits to utilising existing properties are as follows - no need to purchase land, no planning permission required and not least of all, the potential rejuvenation of our inner cities, towns and rural areas.

Further, there would be a reduction of CO2 emissions compared to that of a new build. Properties which are beyond renovation could be sold off to individuals who want to build their own homes. Utilising current vacant properties which are dispersed throughout the country would also prevent a clustering of affordable rental homes (aka social housing) in particular areas.

With grants to upgrade and manage the property, the acquired property could be handed over to the voluntary housing sector and NGO’s providing services for homeless people, as they seem better placed (no red tape and the lengthy tendering process) to bring these properties for rent. An example of an NGO doing such work is the Peter McVerry Trust.

Regards, Ted Myers,

Kilworth.