Irish Homeless Service Providers «Greatly Disturbed» by Rushed Housing Bill 2026

A coalition of 12 Irish homeless service providers is «greatly disturbed» by the speed at which the Housing and Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 is being rushed through the Oireachtas. They warn the Bill will exacerbate Ireland's escalating homeless crisis.

The 42-page draft Bill, first presented to the Dáil on June 3, is now moving to stage three of 11. It primarily amends social housing law, notably requiring applicants to prove legal and habitual residency in Ireland. This proposal has been criticized by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) and opposition members. Housing Minister James Browne states these changes aim to clarify social housing qualification rules and formalize existing residency requirements.

The coalition, including Crosscare and Dublin Simon Community, publicly united for the first time to express shock that the Bill is being rushed without normal consultation. They fear it will create further barriers for vulnerable people, including returning Irish citizens, domestic violence victims, asylum seekers, sex trafficking victims, and Travellers, potentially leading to more rough sleeping as homelessness figures are at record highs. They also worry families on waiting lists may lose support.

The providers are requesting a pause in the Bill's progression to allow discussion of «critical issues,» including an independent appeals mechanism for emergency accommodation. They urge Minister Browne to publish the policy and evidence behind the proposals and engage in consultation with affected communities and NGOs.