More incentives needed for returning emigrants

The government is being urged to ease the eligibility criteria for the First Time Buyers Grant to better support Irish citizens returning from abroad.

The call was made by Fine Gael councillor T.P. O’Reilly at the October meeting of Cavan County Council.

The Virginia-based representative argued that, while there are numerous grants available to help people purchase homes, many require applicants to have been paying tax in Ireland for at least 24 months, effectively excluding many returning emigrants.

“We need to incentivise to entice people to come home,” stated Cllr O’Reilly, highlighting the barriers currently preventing skilled Irish workers from resettling and investing in property in their home country.

His motion received strong backing within the Chamber when raised for discussion.

Cllr Trevor Smith, also of Fine Gael, suggested that the ambition to bring Irish people home should be clearly articulated within the County Development Plan.

He noted that many regions and local businesses are “crying out” for skilled workers and that the current system acts as a “disincentive”.

Sinn Féin councillor Stiofán Conaty also endorsed the motion, showing cross-party support for revisiting the terms of housing supports for returning emigrants.