It is reported that local authorities have been turning down offers of thousands of properties from NAMA.
In the provision of social housing, local authorities face a number of challenges – primarily the demand far exceeding the supply. With the population of the Irish State currently at its highest in 150 years at just
over 4.5 million people, 21,000 additional units will be required over each of the next three years to meet demand. Local authorities do not turn down available housing units unless there are strong reasons for
doing so.We are committed to providing high quality social housing. Local authorities cannot simply accept units as they are presented. We must build sustainable communities in line with key government priorities, not just find quick-fix solutions to a complex problem.
The units referred to by NAMA in media coverage, were not appropriate for use by local authorities for reasons already mentioned – the location not being suitable or a high concentration of social housing already in the area. There were, however, additional factors such as a number of units not meeting standards or construction regulations. Some units had legal title and management issues. Other units were withdrawn by Nama during the process. Or in some cases, the cost of acquisition and leasing did not offer value for money. Local authorities are cognisant that their entry into the market does not result in the raising of prices. Additionally, some properties had complex planning issues and associated financial constraints. In many instances there were questions raised around due diligence.
Across the country, local authorities continue to reform service delivery to meet demand where supply allows. We have reassigned staff and resources to tackle the current situation and will continue to do
everything in our collective power to meet society’s demand for housing, especially for homeless and vulnerable people, and those who cannot meet their housing needs. Local government is wholly dependent on national funding for the supply of social housing. We are currently working closely with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government to deliver the current housing programme using all available resources.
I wish to also add that SDCC has engaged and continues to engage with NARPS and NAMA in relation to a number of properties.

Yours Sincerely

Director of Housing, Social &Community Development