28-07-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Galway City Council housing amendment receives high praise
The proposal was made by Cllr Evelyn Francis Parsons to 'formally recognise and support the housing needs of Irish-born emigrants returning to Ireland,' the report says.
The amendment was adopted in June and inputted into the scheme to be in conjunction with the Safe Home Ireland programme. This programme provides information and support for Irish emigrants at home and abroad - specifically older Irish emigrants who face suitable accommodation conflicts when returning to the country.
'The Council acknowledges the unique vulnerabilities and contributions of returning emigrants and aims to ensure equitable access to social housing supports.'
The report states that criteria for eligibility for housing support are:
Be Irish-born and aged 57 or over.
Be living abroad in rented accommodation.
Be capable of independent living.
Be unable to afford housing in Ireland from personal income or saving.
Giving recognition to Irish born emigrants for the scheme was a 'labour of commitment and conviction,' Cllr Francis Parsons said.
'For those of you who think this is not a big deal or a waste of time,' she added it's the 'equivalence of putting a light in the window' for Irish natives to return.
This consideration is 'for real people who wish or need to return and reintegrate into their communities.'
'Our own diaspora must be seen and feel important.'
Cllr Francis Parsons said she is 'proud that Galway City Council are leaders' in making this change. She adds that it is a 'small change on paper but it holds deep meaning to the returning Irish emigrants.'
In conclusion of the report, it said: 'This amendment ensures that those who once left Ireland in search of opportunity are welcomed back with dignity and support.' Clarifying that the inclusion of this amendment does not imply preferential treatment to any applicants.
