Only 726 NAMA Units Transferred in 2 Years for Social Housing – Cowen

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment and Local Government, Barry Cowen TD, says substantial delays in the delivery of NAMA properties for social housing are leading to longer waiting lists across the country.

In response to Parliamentary questions put down by Deputy Cowen, the Minister for Environment Alan Kelly TD confirmed that only 726 units have been transferred to date across the country. This comes two and half years after the Government promised 2,000 units would be transferred, representing a transfer rate of just 36%.

There are 90,000 families on the social housing waiting list and the housing crisis is deepening.

Deputy Cowen stated: “There are around 90,000 people on the social housing waiting list across the country, this is a shockingly high figure. NAMA has identified 5,294 units for transfer to help address these problems and local authorities have confirmed 1,971 of these are suitable. However, only 726 units have been successfully transferred to date, which is leading to longer waiting lists and more frustration for families that have nowhere to call home. This is very disappointing to say the least.

“The Government needs to accelerate this process to start having some impact on the massive social housing waiting lists. Special teams should be set up across local authorities to ensure this process starts to bear fruit for families stuck on the social housing lists, some for over 10 years.

“Minister Hogan promised over 2,000 units would be transferred in 2012 yet two and half years later there are still no new units in places like County Offaly.

“The homes are available for transfer and should be put to good use in providing much needed accommodation for families in need. Fianna Fáil has published detailed proposals on a new housing policy to help get the construction industry moving again while also addressing the housing crisis cross the country. Getting NAMA working should be a priority for the government, ” Deputy Cowen concluded.