Towns like Castleisland and Dingle are crying out for affordable housing schemes.
That’s according to independent councillor Jackie Healy-Rae, who was speaking at the recent meeting of the Castleisland-Corca Dhuibhne Municipal District.
His motion urging the council to submit an application to the Department of Housing for an affordable housing scheme in Castleisland, received strong support from elected representatives.
Speaking at the meeting Councillor Jackie Healy-Rae said the vast majority of new housing developments being built are for social housing.
He added it seems to be the only show in town, but what’s really needed are affordable housing schemes.
In response Kerry County Council advised the viability for an affordable housing scheme will need to be demonstrated for Tralee and Killarney, before expanding to other parts of the county; adding details of the government's new starter home programme are awaited.
Cllr Healy-Rae responded outlining that there are young people in their 20s and 30s, as well as young families - who are working but can’t get on the property ladder.
He added many in this category want to stay in Castleisland or want to move back home to the area, but are being stifled by the lack of affordable housing development.
Cllr Healy-Rae said the council has the land for it in the town, and that that Kerry County Council needs to be banging down the Department of Housing’s door to get these schemes rolling.
The motion was seconded by Fianna Fáil councillor, Fionnán Fitzgerald, who echoed the need to highlight that land is available in the area, and the option needs to be on the table for those working families.
Independent councillor Charlie Farrelly added his support outlining the response to the Castleisland masterplan, highlighting over 50% of respondents flagged the lack of affordable housing in the town.
