The Hard Shoulder The Hard Shoulder

Minister James Browne discusses housing completions

Oct 29, 2026 · 10m

Summary

Housing Minister James Bryan discusses Ireland's progress toward building 300,000 homes by 2030, citing a 10% increase in construction this year and record mortgage drawdowns. He defends government schemes like Help to Buy against claims they inflate prices and rejects Sinn Féin's assertion that social housing delivery is being capped. The interview also addresses logistical challenges, including ESB warnings on EU sourcing rules, and offers a message of hope to young buyers facing affordability crises.

Topics discussed

Introduction and 10% increase in home completions Minister's response on momentum and affordability goals Debate on Help to Buy and First Home schemes Simplifying bureaucracy to reduce building costs Feasibility of the 300,000 homes by 2030 target Role of rural one-off housing in meeting targets Rebuttal of claims regarding social housing caps Impact of ESB and EU sourcing rules on delivery Message of hope for young buyers and closing remarks
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