Co-operative Housing Ireland (CHI) announces the completion of 40 new homes at Forthview, Wexford while emphasising to the Minister for Housing the key role of Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) in meeting social housing need.

The homes were delivered in partnership with Wexford County Council and the Department of Housing, Housing Finance Agency and Developer, Darragh Ryan.

Speaking at the launch, Gerry McDonogh, Chairperson of CHI, thanked Minister Browne, emphasising the strong partnership CHI has with his department and the need for funding to increase to keep pace, and to deliver more social housing:

“To enable Co-operative Housing Ireland and Approved Housing Bodies to keep pace with current delivery targets – even before any revision – increased funding, a proportion in the form of grants, is required. As it stands, 10,000 new social homes are to be provided in 2025, half of which will be by AHBs. The Programme for Government and future targets should see this increase to an average of 12,000-20,000 year on year to 2030.

Mr. McDonogh continued:

“This development is a testament to the strength of co-operative housing, the importance of collaboration in delivering homes that meet the needs of communities, and we want to do more. We are delighted to welcome families into their new homes here in Forthview.”

Leas Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Ger Carthy, speaking at the event spoke about working together and the increasing role of CHI in the county:

“The delivery of these new homes at Forthview is a great example of what can be achieved when Local Authorities, Approved Housing Bodies, and Government work together. Co-operative Housing Ireland now provides 331 homes to households in Wexford. Wexford County Council is committed to providing safe, high-quality homes for families and individuals, and today marks a significant step forward in that effort. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to meet the housing needs of people across the County of Wexford.”

At the event, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD said:

“I am pleased to see these much-needed homes here in Forthview, Wexford today. This project has been enabled by funding from my Department’s Capital Advance Leasing Facility and reflects the strong state and voluntary sector collaboration which is needed to make these projects happen. I would like to commend Co-operative Housing Ireland, Wexford County Council, the Housing Finance Agency and the Housing Agency for working together to deliver these homes.

“I want to see many more projects like this. The Government, through an unprecedented level of State investment, is now scaling up and delivering more social and affordable homes than we have in a generation and aims to provide even more. You can see the difference these projects make here today. Well located, high-quality homes such as Forthview make a real difference in the lives of families, individuals and communities – it is for this reason we are committed to working in partnership to build on the momentum of Housing For All.”

AHBs Supporting Housing Delivery Amid Market Challenges

Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) continue to be a key part of Ireland’s housing solution, delivering over half of all new social homes last year. Their role has become even more important as private sector investment in apartment construction has slowed, particularly following a retreat of overseas investment since 2021. By stepping in to fund and develop homes, AHBs are ensuring that much-needed housing continues to be built, providing stability and security for individuals and families across the country.

54% of households in Ireland cannot afford to rent without assistance, highlighting the essential role of social and cost-rental housing. Housing charities like CHI and other AHBs provide homes that remain affordable for generations, offering long-term security instead of contributing to market fluctuations.

The Government appointed Housing Commission recommending that social and cost-rental housing should make up 20% of the Ireland’s housing stock, to achieve this, annual social housing targets will need to increase considerably. Increased and diversified funding for AHBs will be required to make this a reality. The new homes at Forthview are designed to provide comfortable, energy-efficient living spaces with access to local services and amenities. CHI remains committed to working with local authorities and government partners to continue delivering high-quality homes across Ireland.

_____________________________________________________

Michael McDonnell Managing Editor of Irish Construction Industry Magazine & Plan Magazine

Email: michael@irishconstruction.com      WWW.MCDMEDIA.IE