Limited Availability of HAP-Eligible Properties Across Ireland
A recent survey has revealed that only 32 properties across 16 areas in Ireland are available where tenants can receive assistance payments through the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme. This finding highlights a significant challenge in making housing more accessible for low-income individuals and families.
The Simon Communities of Ireland, a well-known homelessness charity, conducted this survey to understand how many rental properties meet the criteria for the HAP scheme. The HAP program is designed to support tenants by subsidizing part of their rent on behalf of landlords. However, the results of the survey show that the number of eligible properties is alarmingly low.
According to the Simon Community, out of 978 properties surveyed in 16 different areas, only 32 met the cost requirements under the discretionary rate for the HAP scheme. This indicates a severe shortage of affordable housing options for those who rely on this support system.
In Dublin, the discretionary rate allows for an additional 50% on the standard rate, which is higher than the 35% allowed in other parts of the country. Despite this, the Simon Community’s latest report titled “Locked Out of the Market” highlights a significant decrease in the number of eligible properties in Dublin.
Specifically, the report found that only nine properties in north Dublin city fell within potentially eligible rent rates, while just two properties were identified in Dublin city centre. These numbers represent a 44% and 50% drop, respectively, compared to previous surveys.
Moreover, the report notes that there are no eligible properties in several key cities and towns, including Waterford, Cork, Portlaoise, Limerick, Athlone, County Leitrim, and Sligo. This lack of availability further exacerbates the housing crisis faced by vulnerable populations.
Ber Grogan, the head of the Simon Communities of Ireland, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. He stated that the findings of the survey must serve as a wake-up call for politicians and policymakers.
“We urgently need accelerated delivery of social and affordable housing, meaningful reforms to HAP rates, and a targeted strategy to prevent homelessness,” Grogan said. His comments underscore the need for immediate action to address the growing housing crisis in Ireland.
Key Challenges Identified
- Limited Eligibility: Only 32 out of 978 properties met the HAP eligibility criteria.
- Regional Disparities: Dublin has a higher discretionary rate, but the number of eligible properties has still declined significantly.
- No Eligible Properties in Certain Areas: Several cities and towns have zero eligible properties, worsening the housing situation for residents.
- Need for Policy Reforms: Calls for increased social housing, revised HAP rates, and strategies to combat homelessness are growing louder.
Conclusion
The findings from the Simon Communities of Ireland’s survey reveal a critical gap in the availability of affordable housing for low-income tenants. With only a small number of properties meeting the HAP criteria, it is clear that urgent action is needed to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and stable housing. The recommendations made by Ber Grogan highlight the importance of policy changes and increased investment in social housing to address this pressing issue.
