Simon Harris Warns Councils: «No One Has Done Enough» on Housing
Simon Harris has criticized local councils for believing they have «done enough» on housing, despite a national emergency. He highlighted issues with slow land zoning and utility connection delays. Harris also plans to review the Help-to-Buy scheme and increase the Renters’ Tax Credit.
Simon Harris has warned local councils against complacency regarding housing, stating that many believe they have «done enough.» Speaking on The Journal’s The Candidate podcast, Harris criticized the sluggishness in zoning serviced land, which is crucial for home builders.
He emphasized that if it is a housing emergency, then «no one’s done enough.» Harris also highlighted issues with delays in Irish Water and ESB connections, despite significant funding provided to these organizations. This echoes Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s previous criticism of councils for slow land zoning.
Separately, Harris confirmed no plans for stamp duty relief for first-time buyers but committed to reviewing the Help-to-Buy scheme and its thresholds. He also expressed a desire to increase the Renters’ Tax Credit above €1,000. Regarding house prices, Harris stated that significant home construction is necessary to stabilize or halt price growth, acknowledging the national housing emergency.