Tackling Vacancy & Dereliction

In this episode of Fianna Fáil:In Our Own Words, we examine how tackling vacancy and dereliction can deliver homes faster and strengthen communities, as set out in the Government’s Delivering Homes programme. Fianna Fáil Housing Spokesperson Séamus McGrath TD is joined by Marion Jammet, Director of Policy and Advocacy  with the Irish Green Building Council, to discuss the scale of vacant and derelict properties across Ireland and how new measures under Delivering Homes are designed to bring these homes back into use. The discussion covers expanded Croí Cónaithe supports, including the Vacant Above the Shop Grant, which is helping to unlock homes in town and city centres by supporting the conversion of unused space over shops into much-needed housing. It also looks at stronger powers for local authorities to acquire long-term vacant properties, the use of compulsory purchase where necessary, and a renewed focus on town and village renewal. The episode explores how sustainable retrofit and the reuse of existing buildings can deliver homes more quickly, cut emissions, and make better use of existing infrastructure. Together, they outline how Fianna Fáil’s approach is focused on turning empty buildings into homes, cutting red tape, supporting homeowners and communities, and ensuring vacancy and dereliction are central to increasing housing supply under Delivering Homes.