Social housing income limits

Claim that current housing waiting list is “artificially low”.

Income limits for Cavan’s social housing have been described as “totally crazy”.

To be eligible for social housing anywhere in County Cavan, a person must have income below €25,000 a year.

However, in neighbouring County Meath, limits are €5,000 higher, prompting calls for a change from Council Cathaoirleach Clifford Kelly.

“They are totally crazy, the income limits they have. We’re being told all the time there is a review but it’s outlasted a number of Ministers at this stage.”

He said the limit, set by the Department of Housing, was effectively excluding people from social housing, which he described as “serious”.

“We are talking about increasing the number of houses but limiting who can apply.”

Cllr John Paul Feeley (FF) said increasing the income limits would increase the number of people eligible for social housing, claiming “the Department don’t want to do that”.

He said the current waiting list is “artificially low”.

Councillors gave cross party support for the call for an increase, with Cllr Paddy McDonald (SF) highlighting that a couple with incomes of €40,000 who cannot qualify for a mortgage.

Cllr Patricia Walsh (FF) agreed, saying many young couples don’t qualify for social housing and are “falling in gaps” in the sector.

Councillors agreed to write to the Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien to ask when the review would be completed.