Offaly TD says progress is being made on housing, but admits challenges remain

Recently published figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) have indicated that a total of 9,214 new dwellings were completed nationally in the second quarter of 2025, covering April through June.

This marks a 35 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Apartment completions more than doubled year-on-year, reaching 3,053 the second quarter of this year.

Offaly TD Tony McCormack described these numbers as representing positive progress, while acknowledging that significant challenges remain.

“These figures show that momentum is building,” said Deputy McCormack. “We’re seeing solid growth in housing delivery, but we are under no illusions—this crisis won’t be solved in one year. Continued, focused action is essential.”

One of the key issues slowing down housing delivery is access to essential services such as electricity and water. New developments often face delays due to slow connection times from providers like ESB or Uisce Éireann.

“Access to services is holding back too many projects,” Deputy McCormack said. “Even where homes are ready to go, connections to power or water can stall completion. Minister James Browne is actively working to streamline this process and ensure utility delivery keeps pace with construction.”

The challenge is not limited to completed homes. McCormack noted that in some cases, a lack of available infrastructure is preventing new developments from getting planning permission altogether.

“In some areas, the existing electricity or water network is already at capacity. That means applications can be rejected before a shovel ever hits the ground,” he explained.

The Government is addressing this issue through the new National Development Plan, which includes major investment in infrastructure across the country.

“The National Development Plan is tackling this head-on, with unprecedented levels of funding going into upgrading and expanding our core infrastructure,” said McCormack. “That’s critical not just for today’s housing needs, but for supporting future growth in our communities.”

While the pace of progress has improved, McCormack says the goal remains clear: to build enough quality housing and ensure it's connected, serviced, and available where it’s needed most.

“We’re on the right track. With the right reforms and the right investment, we can keep this momentum going and deliver homes that people can actually live in—without delays, without roadblocks, and with the services they need.”