Galway social housing delivery to rise with additional €50m for national acquisitions scheme
Galway City is set to see an increase in social housing delivery this year following an additional allocation to the Second-Hand Social Housing Acquisitions Programme.
Housing, Local Government and Heritage Minister James Browne, confirmed that a further €50 million has been made available, on top of the €325 million allocated earlier this year.
Galway City Council has been authorised to enter into up to €2.4 million in funding commitments for acquisitions that may close in 2026 – reflecting 30pc of the original €8 million budget given to Galway City in 2025.
The programme focuses on preventing homelessness in priority areas such as Tenant-in-Situ acquisitions, supports for older people, disabled persons, and individuals exiting homeless services.
The council remains committed to the ‘Tenant in Situ’ scheme, an initiative that allows eligible tenants to remain in the home their landlord is selling but acts as one of the last options considered when preventing homelessness.
Director of Services at Galway City Council Elizabeth Fanning said: “This funding increase is a vital step forward in our efforts to support vulnerable households in Galway. It allows us to continue acquiring homes and remain committed to the Tenant in Situ scheme, which plays a crucial role in preventing homelessness for tenants facing eviction through no fault of their own.”
So far this year, 19 homes have been acquired through the programme.
“This enhanced funding supports our broader strategy to position Galway as a city of inclusion and opportunity,” Chief executive of Galway City Council Leonard Cleary said.
“By investing in social housing, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also building stronger, more resilient communities. We will continue to work closely with the Department to ensure that this programme delivers meaningful outcomes for the people of Galway.”