New Ross residents missing out on affordable housing schemes

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

With affordable housing schemes recently launched in Wexford town and Enniscorthy those in the New Ross district have been casting envious glances towards their county colleagues.

Raising the issue at the June meeting of the New Ross Municipal District (NRMD), Councillor Michael Sheehan asked whether those searching for viable housing options in the area could be invited to a special information night organised by the council.

“We should bring all the relevant sections of the housing department to this event,” he said. “A lot of people who have gone over the €38,000 threshold aren’t getting any housing support whatsoever, they’re paying extortionate rent and they’re never going to get a mortgage. There is growing group of young people out there who are never going to own their own home, get a mortgage, or have a council house.

"In 15-20 years when those people look back they will be absolutely scathing on the politicians of the day for not putting in the proper housing supports.”

Housing officer Martina Donohue was receptive to the idea, saying that the council’s housing staff would be “more than happy” to accommodate such an event.