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Dáil
‹ Questions on Promised Legislation

Vacant units working group

Summary

Deputy Ellis asked whether a working group on vacant urban premises had reported and what concrete action would follow. The Taoiseach said he did not know the report’s status but noted funding to bring 7,900 social houses, including 600 voids, back into use.

The Minister of State, Deputy English, set up a working group to address vacancies in urban areas in both residential and commercial premises with the intention of bringing currently-vacant units into productive use. It was also a commitment in the programme for Government. Has the working group concluded its deliberations and, if so, when will we see its report? What positive actions will come from this initiative given that thousands of premises are lying needlessly idle during a housing crisis the length and breadth of the country?

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Leo Varadkar The Taoiseach Fine Gael

I do not know specifically what the position is in relation to that report. Perhaps a written question to the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government would receive a detailed response for the Deputy. As to voids being returned to use, funding is available next year to bring 7,900 social houses into use. That includes funding for 600 voids to be returned to habitable condition.

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