Ireland's HAP scheme leaves just 20 rentals within limits

A Simon Communities of Ireland report found that in June only 20 of more than 1,300 rental properties nationwide met the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) limits, with 17 of those located in Dublin and three in Kildare. No properties fell within HAP limits in twelve other surveyed areas, including Cork, Galway and Limerick.

Sinn Féin councillor Daithí Doolan warned that the limits “do not meet the reality of the private rented market” and urged immediate government action. Simon Communities executive director Ber Grogan said the scheme is failing low‑income households and called for a review and higher limits in the 2027 budget. The minister responsible, James Browne, has confirmed a review of HAP is underway but no recommendations have been published yet.