Cowen welcomes EU report on housing crisis

Midlands-North West MEP Barry Cowen has welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of its report addressing the housing crisis across the European Union.

The Fianna Fáil MEP described it as an important step in removing key barriers to housing delivery while respecting Member State responsibility for implementation.

The report highlights the need for reforms to EU State Aid rules and a stronger lending role for the European Investment Bank (EIB) in order to support Member States as they seek to increase housing supply.

MEP Cowen said the report reflects the core priorities he has consistently advocated during the committee’s work - enabling Governments to invest more effectively in housing while mobilising European financial capacity to support large-scale delivery.

For Ireland, reform of State Aid rules would broaden the criteria under which the State can support social and affordable housing projects, helping unlock additional investment and accelerate delivery.

MEP Cowen also stated that the reforms outlined in the report will make Ireland’s goal of delivering over 300,000 homes by 2030 more achievable.

The Midlands North-West MEP added that the focus must now turn to implementation, with the European Commission expected to follow through on its commitment to deliver the recommended changes.

“My reason for pushing for both a Housing Commissioner and this report was always very simple. Two things needed to happen: reform of State Aid rules and a stronger lending role for the European Investment Bank," MEP Cowen said.

“Both are clearly recognised in this report. From my perspective, that means the core job here is done.”

“At the same time, housing has always been and remains a Member State competence. Delivery happens at national, regional and local level.”

“For Ireland, reform of State Aid rules will broaden the criteria under which the State can invest in social and affordable housing, meaning more homes for families and young people," the MEP stated.