Dear Editor,
On March 7th, The Irish Times ran two notable headlines. The first highlighted apprehensions raised by international businesses about the housing situation in Ireland. The second suggested that with Ireland falling behind other European Union nations in terms of housing development, rents and property prices are set to continue their upward trajectory as per the Economic and Social Research Institute.
As the cost of living soars in Ireland, it sheds light on the travails of essential frontline workers – the police officers, nurses, teachers, and childcare professionals – caught in a quandary. With multinational firms grappling to house their well-remunerated workers, it is becoming increasingly impossible for these essential workers to afford rent, not to mention home ownership, in Ireland.
The emigration of our skilled and educated youth, many vowing never to return, is a testament to this enduring crisis. Oddly enough, our politicians appear rooted in denial about the potential crisis for key workers in the country.
In stark contrast, London has long acknowledged this problem, having implemented incentivisation and legislative measures for their essential workers – a fact easily found via a quick online search.
The consequences of ignoring housing struggles of frontline staff could be dire. I fear that in the impending years, the impact on Ireland’s economic and societal framework might be substantial if key worker accommodation remains unaddressed.
Despite government efforts through housing incentives amounting to billions yearly, many, including myself and numerous allies, find these solutions ineffective as they lack the aptitude to tackle this monumental problem head-on.
Sincerely,
Paschal Taggart,
Dublin 6.