The opposition criticised the Government’s housing policy after the Tánaiste outlined plans for a tax on dereliction.

The latest estimates indicate there were about 19,438 residential derelict properties across the State at the end of 2025.

According to Minister Cummins, 79 vacant properties were brought back into use in Waterford in 2025

A new Derelict Property Tax was announced as part of Budget 2026 to replace the Derelict Sites Levy.

Town Centre First is also designed to increase housing supply by bringing vacant buildings back into use.