UK pledges to tackle empty home crisis - should we follow suit?
Summary
Andrea Gilligan discusses the UK’s new plan to empower councils to take over vacant properties, featuring guests Dr. Frank O’Connor, Alfonso Bonilla, and Felgen Jose. They debate whether Ireland should adopt similar compulsory rental measures to address its housing crisis and derelict buildings. The conversation highlights the failure of current Irish laws and taxes due to weak enforcement and excessive exemptions. The guests argue that local authorities need stronger powers, such as compulsory sale, to force owners to renovate or sell idle assets.
Topics discussed
Intro: UK PM announces crackdown on vacant properties
Dr. Frank O'Connor explains compulsory rental mechanism
Concerns over exemptions and enforcement in UK and Ireland
Comparison of UK and Irish housing taxes and measures
Alfonso Bonilla: Case for minimum occupancy for landlords
Institutional landlords vs. individual owners and CPOs
High construction costs and state-led building solutions
Listener text: Vacant homes in Killarney and Wicklow
Fergal Jose: Weak powers of Irish local authorities
Need for compulsory sale powers for derelict sites
Profitability of vacancy due to low enforcement risk
Closing remarks and contact details
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