IFA Welcomes Move to Reform Policy on Rural Housing

IFA President Francie Gorman has welcomed the Government’s intention to reform one-off rural housing policy, describing it as an important step towards supporting rural communities, increasing housing supply and strengthening generational renewal across rural Ireland.

Francie Gorman said access to housing has become one of the main barriers facing young people and families who want to live, work and be part of a community in rural Ireland.

“We have pursued this issue as it’s something that our members in every part of the country bring up.  For too long, rigid and inconsistent planning guidelines have prevented people with genuine local and family connections building houses and making homes in their own communities.”

The IFA President said that proposed changes must deliver a number of clear outcomes, including better housing delivery in rural Ireland; a more practical and flexible planning system; and support for the long-term future of farming families and rural communities.

“This is about more than housing, it is about sustaining schools, local businesses, community and sporting organisations and ensuring rural Ireland remains a vibrant plane for people to work and live for future generations.”

The IFA has requested a meeting with Minister for Housing James Browne to discuss the proposed changes in further detail and to ensure the final framework delivers real change on the ground across all local authorities.