If the Government is serious about housing and rejuvenating vacant properties, it needs to incentivise first time buyers to purchase vacant properties, says Deputy Sean Canney.
The Galway East TD says there are many vacant properties in every town and village and these same villages and towns are in decline.
“There is a new focus on remote working and the evidence is that young working couples are prepared to move to our towns and villages,”he says.
“Incentives, including a targeted Help to Buy Scheme and a State backed mortgage together with a VAT refund scheme would entice young couples to invest in vacant properties and convert those vacant buildings into modern vibrant living spaces.
"In turn this would revitalise the towns and communities and achieve affordable living in sustainable communities. To address the housing crisis, we need to look beyond new built houses as the solution is in our vacant properties.
He says the Government will reap the benefits with regional development, but they need to lead the way.
