Collins welcomes adoption of Independent Ireland planning exemption policy but says delivery now key

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins has welcomed the Government’s adoption of a further policy position long advocated by his party, but warned that the real test will be whether it delivers tangible results for people.

Deputy Collins was responding to the latest housing-related measures which centre on easing planning constraints and expanding options such as modular or garden-based housing developments.

He said the move reflects a growing recognition within Government that long-standing barriers to housing delivery, particularly in rural Ireland, must be addressed.

“Independent Ireland has consistently argued for practical, common-sense solutions to unlock housing supply, particularly for families in rural communities who simply want the opportunity to build and live in their own areas,” he said.

Deputy Collins said the measures would provide some relief for those struggling to access housing, especially in regions where planning restrictions and infrastructure challenges have limited development.

“These changes will go some way towards helping people in rural Ireland. They acknowledge the reality that one-size-fits-all planning simply does not work across the country,” he said.

However, he cautioned against overstating the impact of the policy, noting that Ireland’s housing crisis remains deep-rooted and complex. Recent figures show record levels of homelessness and continued pressure on supply, underlining the scale of the challenge. 

“This is not a solution to the housing crisis by any means. It is a step in the right direction, but only a step,” he added.

Deputy Collins said the focus must now shift from policy announcements to delivery on the ground.

“The key now is implementation. People are tired of announcements and headlines. They want to see homes built, families housed, and communities sustained.”

He said Independent Ireland will continue to press for broader reforms, including planning changes, infrastructure investment, and measures to support local people in building homes within their own communities. The key measure this Government must take is to declare a housing emergency in this country and we will continue to fight for that and the emergency legislation the crisis needs.