Budget 2026 is a bold and practical response to Longford housing challenges

Budget 2026 will deliver housing action in Longford, that's the view of local Fine Gael TD Micheál Carrigy, Chair of the Oireachtas Housing Committee. 

Deputy Carrigy stated, "Budget 2026 is a bold and practical response to Longford housing challenges and reflects the Government’s commitment to delivering homes for families around the country."

He continued,  “These measures will revitalise communities all around Longford, help deliver infrastructure for more homes, as well as supporting renters in line with the Programme for Government.

“A €2bn capital investment in housing, water infrastructure and energy systems is a cornerstone of the Budget’s ambition to accelerate deliver and future-proof Ireland’s build environment.

“The reduction of VAT to 9% for the construction of new apartments, is a key way to stimulate development around the country as well as lowing the cost for builders, as well as buyers.

“Fine Gael is standing up for young people to get onto the property ladder. The decision to extend the Help-to-Buy scheme for five years will provide certainty for first time buyers,."

Also read: ‘Shortage of supply’ as house prices in Longford continue to rise

Budget 2026 will also reinvigorate towns and cities around the country in tackling dereliction and vacancy. Revenue will now collect the derelict site tax which will ensure stronger enforcement and accountability.

More regional towns will benefit from the Living City Initiative as the scheme is being expanded significantly from 14,000 to over 30,000 eligible properties and covers five new regional centres: Sligo, Letterkenny, Drogheda, Dundalk and Athlone.

Development costs will be further reduced through a targeted cut in corporation tax on profits from apartment construction, encouraging supply and investment. The Budget also includes an extension of landlord relief and Mortgage Interest Relief for another year, aimed at supporting rental supply and easing financial pressure on property owners.

Also read: ‘Disgraceful’ - Mixed reactions to Budget 2026 as multiple groups hit out at Government

This Budget will also deliver funding for additional staff at An Coimisiún Pleanála and Uisce Éireann which will speed up planning decision as well as infrastructure delivery.

“This Budget is about action, not rhetoric. We are investing in supply, cracking down on dereliction, and supporting renters and buyers alike. Budget 2026 reflects Fine Gael’s commitment to practical solutions and long-term planning. Housing is the defining issue of our time, and this Budget shows we are serious about solving it,” concluded Deputy Micheál Carrigy.

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