This morning, Co-operative Housing Ireland (CHI) proudly launched our 2024 Election Manifesto, calling for an ambitious approach to housing delivery in Ireland. The manifesto urges policymakers to set annual targets for 60-70,000 new homes, with half of these as social and cost rental housing, aiming to meet the nation’s critical housing needs.

In our manifesto, CHI advocates for policies that empower Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to reach their full potential to deliver quality, sustainable homes and maintain existing ones. We believe that to overcome Ireland’s housing shortage and plan for the future, a community-led approach is essential. Supporting co-ops and Community Land Trusts will not only accelerate housing delivery but also diversify options and strengthen vibrant communities across Ireland.

Read the CHI 2024 Election Manifesto

1. 30,000 Social Homes per Year:

CHI calls for an accelerated expansion of social and affordable housing. To address Ireland’s urgent housing needs, reliable funding is essential to ensure consistent construction, even during market changes. CHI also supports the Housing Commission's recommendation of 20% social and cost rental housing of the national stock to meet current needs. If 30,000 new social homes are delivered each year, then Ireland will reach this recommendation within the next 10 years. This commitment to social housing prioritises the needs of all communities and ensures accessible, affordable housing for those in need.

2. Unlock the Potential of Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs):

‍AHBs play a critical role in housing delivery, accounting for 50% of Ireland’s social housing. CHI underscores the need to address debt and funding gaps that currently limit AHBs. With targeted grants and government equity, AHBs can be empowered to scale their efforts, delivering more homes and providing enhanced support for tenants across Ireland.

3. Advance Decarbonisation in the AHB Sector:

‍As a leader in sustainable housing, CHI already delivers A2-rated homes and is committed to retrofitting older properties to meet B2 standards. To align with Ireland’s climate goals, the manifesto calls for 90% retrofit grant funding, a one-stop-shop scheme for AHBs, and SEAI grants to cover communal areas and multi-unit buildings. CHI’s decarbonisation initiatives are designed to foster environmentally responsible, energy-efficient communities while making a tangible impact on national carbon reduction targets.

4. Strengthen Co-operatives & Community Land Trusts:

‍Co-operatives and Community Land Trusts hold the potential to deliver affordable housing through community ownership, ensuring long-term affordability and fostering strong, resident-driven communities. CHI’s manifesto calls for the activation of the Affordable Housing Act 2021, targeted State support, low-interest loans, affordable sites, and legislation that allows these models to thrive. This community-led approach is essential to diversify housing options and empower residents to shape their own living environments.

High-quality and Affordable Homes

Co-operative Housing Ireland continues to deliver high-quality, affordable homes that foster vibrant co-operative communities. Last year alone, CHI delivered 849 new homes, and we now provide housing to over 5,500 households across Ireland. Through our 2024 Election Manifesto, we call on policymakers and stakeholders to adopt these proposals, ensuring a sustainable, inclusive future for housing in Ireland.

For more information about CHI’s 2024 Election Manifesto visit www.cooperativehousing.ie/news/growing-sustainable-solutions-for-a-better-housing-future or please contact Haley Curran at haley.curran@cooperativehousing.ie