The latest report from the Simon Community sheds light on the availability of housing for individuals relying on the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) in Ireland. The report highlights the number of properties available for rent, the distribution across different regions, and the challenges faced in accessing affordable housing.
The Simon Community’s recent report, “Locked Out Of The Market,” unveils crucial insights into the housing landscape for individuals dependent on the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) in Ireland. The report, focusing on March data, indicates a notable increase in the availability of properties, albeit with regional disparities.
According to the report, the total number of properties available for rent under the HAP scheme nationwide reached 38, showcasing a positive trend with five more properties compared to the previous report in December. Across the 16 surveyed areas, a total of 1,180 properties were available for rent at varying price points, marking a substantial 76% surge from the 2023 figures.
Dublin emerged as a focal point in the distribution of available HAP properties, accounting for the majority with 32 out of the 38 properties located in the capital. Notably, areas like Athlone, Cork city centre, and Galway city suburbs faced a scarcity of HAP properties, emphasising the regional discrepancies in housing availability.
In an effort to address the housing crisis, Wayne Stanley, the executive director at the Simon Communities of Ireland, stressed the need for increased efforts in delivering affordable housing solutions. Stanley underlined the importance of ambitious housing plans, calling for the construction of at least 15,000 social housing units annually to combat homelessness effectively.
While the report indicates improvements in the availability of properties, there remains a pressing need for sustainable solutions beyond HAP. The call for enhanced social and affordable housing initiatives echoes throughout the report, emphasizing the significance of a comprehensive strategy to tackle the housing challenges in Ireland.
In conclusion, the latest insights from the Simon Community’s report underscore the ongoing housing struggles faced by individuals relying on HAP, emphasising the imperative for long-term housing solutions to ensure accessibility and affordability for all in need.
