Cork Northside Housing Completions Drop Significantly

Cork Housing Crisis: Northside Faces a Dire Reality

The numbers are stark and worrying. A recent report from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) reveals a dramatic 23% drop in new housing completions on Cork’s Northside, a decline far exceeding the national average of 6.7%. This alarming trend comes as the government struggles to meet its aspiring target of 40,000 new homes built in 2024, with only 30,330 units completed nationwide. The situation on the Northside is notably dire, raising fears about the city’s deepening affordability crisis.

“These figures are proof that the government’s housing policy has failed fully,” asserted cork City North Central TD, Thomas Gould. “Where are the 40,000 homes we were promised would be delivered last year?”

Gould, a vocal advocate for affordable housing, stressed the urgent need for increased supply, particularly on Cork’s Northside.”The solution is an increase in supply,” he emphasized. “The Program for government does not propose the step change needed to resolve this housing and give people in Cork North Central a chance at a home of their own.”

With rising rents and house prices, Gould warns that ordinary people are bearing the brunt of the housing crisis. “Another five years of record rents, record house prices and missed targets is not what ordinary people in cork need.We need ambitious delivery and real increases in supply,” he concluded, underscoring the urgency for immediate action.

What Can Individuals Do?

We spoke with Fiona O’Connell, Head of Cork Simon, a local housing charity, to get a deeper understanding of this complex issue. O’Connell offers a glimmer of hope,emphasizing that while systemic change is crucial,individuals can also play a role in addressing the crisis.

“There are a number of things people can do,” she explained. “First and foremost, it’s critically important to stay informed about the issue and engage in public discourse. Let your voice be heard. Contact your representatives, attend public meetings, and advocate for policies that promote affordable housing.”

O’Connell also encourages people to support local organizations working to address homelessness and housing insecurity. “donate your time, money, or resources to groups like Cork Simon. Every bit helps,” she said.

O’Connell urges people to consider the impact of their own actions. “Think about your own housing needs and explore alternative options like shared housing or co-living. Be mindful of the impact your choices have on the housing market.”

The Plight of Affordable Housing in Cork

The story of housing affordability in Cork is one of growing desperation. A recent drop in new dwelling completions has significantly impacted a community already struggling with soaring rents and scarce availability. Fiona O’Connell, a prominent advocate for the homeless, paints a stark picture of the situation.

“These figures are deeply troubling and reflect a growing desperation within the community,” O’Connell stated passionately. “Families and individuals are struggling to find affordable housing, and the situation on Cork’s Northside is notably dire.”

According to CSO data, new dwelling completions on Cork’s northside have plummeted by 23% compared to last year. This alarming trend is directly affecting the lives of the people O’Connell works with.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she shares. “We’re seeing a surge in applications from people facing homelessness. Many are in long-term insecure accommodation, struggling with rising rents and precarious living situations. It’s a constant cycle of anxiety and fear,especially for families with children.”

The national shortfall in new housing completions further compounds the problem in Cork. This city, already grappling with a severe housing shortage, is not seeing the construction of enough affordable homes to meet the growing demand. the consequences are clear: the cost of accommodation continues to rise, becoming unattainable for many hardworking individuals and families.

O’Connell believes a multi-pronged approach is crucial to address this multifaceted crisis:

• Increased construction of social housing
• Incentives for developers to build affordable units
• Rent controls to curb excessive price hikes
• Greater investment in supported housing for vulnerable populations
• Extensive social welfare programs to tackle the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty and unemployment

Looking ahead, O’Connell strongly urges those concerned about this crisis to take action:

“This is everyone’s issue.We cannot stand by while people struggle to find a place to call home. We need to demand action from our elected officials, support organizations working on the front lines, and create a more compassionate and equitable housing system for all.”

What is the impact of the decline in new dwelling completions on the people Fiona O’Connell works with?

The Housing Crisis in Cork: A Crisis of Urgent Proportions

An interview with Fiona O’Connell, Head of Cork Simon

The housing crisis gripping Cork is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. We spoke with Fiona O’Connell, Head of Cork Simon, a prominent institution dedicated to addressing homelessness and housing insecurity, to gain a deeper understanding of this complex problem.

fiona, the latest statistics paint a grim picture of the housing situation in Cork, especially on the Northside. Can you elaborate on the challenges faced by individuals and families in this area?

“the situation is dire.We’re seeing a staggering increase in applications for our services from people struggling with homelessness and insecure accommodation,” O’Connell explains with a heavy sigh. “Families are being forced into overcrowded and sub-standard living conditions, facing constant anxiety about their future. It’s a heartbreaking reality that demands our immediate attention.”

The recent drop in new dwelling completions is a cause for serious concern. What impact has this had on the people you work with?

“These figures are deeply troubling and reflect a growing desperation within the community,” O’Connell states passionately. “Families and individuals are struggling to find affordable housing, and the situation on Cork’s Northside is notably dire.” According to CSO data, new dwelling completions on Cork’s northside have plummeted by 23% compared to last year. This alarming trend is directly affecting the lives of the people O’Connell works with.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she shares. “We’re seeing a surge in applications from people facing homelessness. Many are in long-term insecure accommodation, struggling with rising rents and precarious living situations. It’s a constant cycle of anxiety and fear, especially for families with children.”

How can individuals contribute to finding solutions to this complex issue?

“There are a number of things people can do,” she explains. “First and foremost, it’s critically critically important to stay informed about the issue and engage in public discourse. Let your voice be heard. Contact your representatives, attend public meetings, and advocate for policies that promote affordable housing.”

O’Connell also encourages people to support local organizations working to address homelessness and housing insecurity. “donate your time, money, or resources to groups like Cork Simon. Every bit helps,” she said.

O’Connell urges people to consider the impact of their own actions. “Think about your own housing needs and explore option options like shared housing or co-living. Be mindful of the impact your choices have on the housing market.”

What are your thoughts on the government’s proposed measures to address the housing crisis? Do you believe they are sufficient?

“The government has made some commitments, but the situation demands much bolder action,” O’Connell states frankly. “We need a basic shift in policy, with greater investment in social housing, incentives for developers to build affordable units, and rent controls to protect vulnerable tenants. We need to address the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty and unemployment, through thorough social welfare programs. The current strategies are simply not enough. We need a genuinely compassionate and equitable housing system that prioritizes the needs of all.”

O’Connell concludes the interview with a powerful call to action: “This is a shared obligation. We cannot stand by while people struggle to find a place to call home. We need to demand better from our leaders, support organizations on the front lines, and work together to create a more just and equitable society for everyone.

What actions will you take to address the housing crisis in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.