In our Election 2016 Briefing the ICSH (Irish Council for Social Housing) as the national representative federation of 270 non-profit housing associations asked all election candidates to ‘pledge’ support for a number of simple solutions to effectively address many obstacles to housing delivery as well as contribute to a more sustainable housing system.
Impediments exist for delivery across all housing tenures and whilst the main focus of housing associations it to provide social housing, we recognise the need to address difficulties for owner occupiers and households in the private rented sector.
Underpinning the actions proposed is the collective ethos and vision which drives housing associations and the work they do – provision of affordable, good quality, secure homes to those most in need. Housing associations collectively manage over 30,000 homes in 500 local communities and the sector has an ambition to initially provide for another 5,000 households.
There are four Pillars with a number of actions attached, which if implemented, the ICSH believe would significantly enhance the ability of the sector to increase delivery and provide greater choice and supports to tenants. Fundamental to this is the availability of the €3.8bn earmarked in the Social Housing Strategy. These actions along with the necessary resources will enable the sector to play a greater part in delivery in this housing crisis.
Full details on these essential requirements for the next Progreamme for Governmenet can be downloaded here.
