First time buyers in Tullamore will wait average of 78 years to purchase a home

Statistics published this week show that, based on current building rates, it would take the average first time buyer in Tullamore 78 years to purchase a home.

New data released by the Central Statistics Office shows there has been a 78% reduction in home completion in 2025 compared to 2024, with new social home completion in Offaly having fallen by 55% to just 78 homes per year.

Cllr Aoife Masterson has called the statistics 'shockingly', as Laois shows a "markedly different" situation.

In the same period, Portlaoise has a 17 year wait, a 43% increase in completion between 2025 and 2024, and a 34% increase in social housing.

"It’s time for TDs in Offaly to stop gaslighting constituents, telling them to puff out their chest, that things are getting better," Cllr Masterson said.

"The figures do not lie. Offaly is being left behind and it is our family, friends, and communities who are paying the price."