Housing
Bills affecting housing supply, tenancy, planning, and residential property in Ireland.
190 bills tracked under this topic.
Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2026
28 Apr 2026 Second Stage Current Joe Neville
- Exempts non-profit early childhood care and education providers from business rates, including after-care and part-time provision.
- Exempts for-profit early childhood providers receiving Core Funding and capping fees at ECCE programme rates from business rates.
- Exempts childminders offering services from their home (mixed-use dwelling) from business rates on that portion.
Forty-first Amendment of the Constitution (Right to Housing) Bill 2026
27 Mar 2026 Second Stage Current Rory Hearne
- Proposes a constitutional amendment to add a right to housing in Ireland's constitution.
- Currently at Second Stage of legislative process; specific amendment text and scope not detailed in provided information.
- Sponsored by Rory Hearne; practical effects of amendment depend on final wording and passage through remaining stages.
Planning and Development (Material Interest) Bill 2026
25 Mar 2026 Second Stage Current Peadar Tóibín
- Objections to planning permission become ineffective unless made by someone with material interest in the development, with exceptions for State authorities and public bodies.
- Personal information submitted solely to prove material interest is kept private and not disclosed to the public by planning authorities or An Coimisiún Pleanála.
- Bill amends Planning and Development Act 2024 and Act 2000 to apply the material interest requirement to submissions, observations, and appeals against planning decisions.
Copyright and Related Rights (Amendment) Bill 2025
20 Mar 2026 Enacted
- Amends Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000 to set a default 50-50 split of royalty payments between music performers and producers, minus administrative costs.
- Transfers dispute resolution from Controller of Intellectual Property to Circuit Court when performers and producers cannot agree on payment division.
- Expands copyright protections to nationals of countries party to WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty and Rome Convention for intellectual property compliance.
Housing Loans Regulations (Fresh Start - Buyout) (Amendment) Bill 2026
19 Mar 2026 Second Stage Current Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Housing Loans Regulations 2021 to allow people staying in family home after divorce/separation to get local authority housing loans to buyout ex-partner's share.
- Extends eligibility criteria in Regulation 7 to include those retaining ownership post-divorce/separation who need mortgage finance for buyout purposes.
- Enables divorced or legally separated individuals to access housing loan funding from local authorities specifically for acquiring their former partner's property interest.
Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026
27 Feb 2026 Enacted
- Introduces national rent controls: new tenancies capped at CPI or 2% annual increases; existing tenancies capped at CPI or 2% annually; new apartments/student housing capped at CPI only to encourage development.
- Creates 6-year minimum tenancy term for small landlords (under 4 properties); restricts termination grounds during term to family occupation, hardship, or property sale; limits large landlords to voluntary departures and breaches.
- Requires RTB to publish rent register with property details (size, type, bedrooms, location, energy rating); allows RTB to share tenant data with Social Protection, Revenue, and energy authority for administration and compliance.
Repeal of Exempted Development Regulations Bill 2026
27 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Eoin Ó Broin
- Repeals two 2022–2023 regulations that exempted certain temporary accommodation buildings for international protection seekers from planning permission requirements.
- Removes exempted development status previously extended to 2028, requiring future accommodation facilities to obtain standard planning permission.
- Allows state agency to apply for planning retention permission for existing exempted accommodation to continue operating legally.
Public Art Mural (Exempted Development) Bill 2026
26 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to exempt certain public art murals from planning permission when they have artistic or cultural merit and owner consent.
- Exemption applies to private property only, excluding listed structures, protected structures, architectural conservation areas, and special amenity areas.
- Murals must not be commercial advertisements and must comply with Equal Status Acts to qualify for exemption.
Planning and Development (Provision of Public Housing) Bill 2026
26 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Chris Andrews
- Removes section 97(3)(b) from the Planning and Development Act 2000, eliminating a specific restriction on public housing provision.
- Amends planning law to enable local authorities greater flexibility in delivering public housing projects.
- Repeals a subsection that previously limited or constrained how public housing could be developed under planning rules.
Universal Access to Social Housing (Abolition of Income Limits) Bill 2026
20 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Richard Boyd Barrett
- Amends Housing Act 2009 to remove all income-based criteria from social housing assessments, enabling anyone to access social housing regardless of earnings.
- Deletes clauses linking social housing eligibility to household income or Rent Supplement receipt, abolishing existing income limits.
- Comes into force within 90 days of Presidential approval.
Social Housing Passport Bill 2026
13 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Mark Ward
- Allows households on social housing waiting lists to transfer to another local authority's list while keeping their waiting time, based on Minister-set criteria like employment or education.
- Enables current social housing tenants (council, AHB, RAS, HAP) to apply for transfer lists in other authorities, retaining their time on list under Minister-defined regulations.
- Permits Minister to set expedited procedures for passport applications involving threats to life or safety, and to extend the scheme across the island with Northern Executive agreement.
Waste Management (Single Household Waste Collection Service) Bill 2026
11 Feb 2026 Second Stage Current Marie Sherlock
- Replaces open-market competition with competitive bidding: local authorities award exclusive household waste collection permits through competitive processes rather than allowing multiple competing providers.
- Requires permit holders to operate hardship waivers allowing eligible households to reduce or eliminate waste collection charges based on personal hardship grounds.
- Enables local authorities to make bye-laws requiring landlords to ensure adequate waste collection services are available and used at residential properties.
Derelict Sites (Amendment) Bill 2022
16 Jan 2026 Second Stage Current Thomas Gould
- Local authorities must report to Minister if they collect less than 75% of derelict sites levy due, explaining reasons and remedial plans within 3 months.
- Minister must compile and publish reports from local authorities to Oireachtas, increasing transparency on levy collection performance across all councils.
- New reporting requirement amends 1990 Act to improve accountability where derelict sites levy collection consistently falls short of amounts applied.
Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks (Amendment) Bill 2025
9 Jan 2026 Enacted
- Homeowners can apply for increased grants if they incurred eligible costs since 29 March 2024, and timelines for completing remediation work extend from 65 to 130 weeks.
- Joint owners married to, in civil partnership with, or cohabiting with an eligible owner can now become eligible owners; those with maximum grants can apply for ancillary grants.
- Housing Agency can review prior grant determinations and issue new ones; SEAI can share data with local authorities to prevent double-funding; local authorities can create additional charging orders for extra grant payments.
Residential Tenancies (Winter Ban on Evictions) Bill 2025
11 Dec 2025 Second Stage Current Eoin Ó Broin
- Defers eviction termination dates falling between bill passage and 1 July 2026 to later dates, protecting tenants unable to find alternative housing during this period.
- Exempts evictions from deferral if based on tenant non-payment of rent, other tenant breaches, or accommodation no longer suiting household size needs.
- Applies deferral to Notices of Termination served before or during the emergency period, including those from RTB determinations, implemented on a phased basis.
Housing Finance Agency (Amendment) Bill 2025
14 Nov 2025 Enacted
- Increases Housing Finance Agency's statutory borrowing limit from €12 billion to €13.5 billion.
- Amends Section 10(3) of Housing Finance Agency Acts 1981 to 2024 to enable higher borrowing capacity.
- Allows HFA to access additional €1.5 billion in borrowing authority for housing finance operations.
Emergency Inspection of Dublin Zoo Bill 2025
7 Nov 2025 Second Stage Current Paul Murphy
- Bill requires the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to produce a report on appointing an emergency independent inspector for Dublin Zoo.
- No powers granted to the Minister to appoint an inspector; bill only mandates a report on the appointment process.
- Bill contains two sections: one requiring the report, one addressing commencement date.
Regulation of Drones Bill 2025
16 Oct 2025 Second Stage Current Roderic O'Gorman
- Requires local authorities to create drone management objectives in development plans, prioritizing public interest operations and ensuring consistency with national planning policies.
- Allows individuals, local authorities, and the EPA to complain to District Court about noise from private or commercial drones, removing blanket aircraft exemption.
- Adds drone regulation as a mandatory consideration when issuing National Planning Statements, ensuring uniform national conditions for private and commercial drone use.
Developer Profits Transparency Bill 2023
10 Oct 2025 First Stage Defeated Cian O'Callaghan
- Amends Affordable Housing Act 2021 to require property developers receiving State subsidies to publish annual financial statements.
- Aims to increase transparency about profits of companies getting State subsidies for home building.
- Makes changes to section 41 of the Affordable Housing Act 2021 to implement the reporting requirement.
Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2025
28 Jul 2025 Enacted
- Allows housing developments with less than 2 years of permission remaining to get 3-year extensions if applied for within 6 months; work must start within 18 months or extension lapses.
- Extends judicial review pause for planning permissions from the 2024 Act to older 2000 Act permissions, allowing retrospective suspension claims if development didn't substantially commence during review.
- Permits development plan and local area plan variations started under the 2000 Act to continue under that Act despite its repeal, ensuring smooth transition during phased commencement of 2024 Act.
Supports for Survivors of Residential Institutional Abuse Bill 2024
18 Jul 2025 Enacted
- Provides free health services to survivors of residential institutional abuse matching supports given to Magdalen Laundries survivors, plus €3,000 payment for those living abroad.
- Enables Minister to make education support payments to help survivors engage in education, with criteria to be determined and published.
- Dissolves the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board (Caranua), transferring its functions and assets to the Minister for Education.
Compulsory Purchase Order Bill 2025
17 Jul 2025 Second Stage Current James Geoghegan
- Replaces 1845 and 1919 Acts with modern compulsory land acquisition rules. Sets compensation assessment process, vesting order procedures, and time limits for claims.
- Transfers compensation disputes to Valuation Tribunal for expert determination. Owners can request advance payments of at least 90% before final compensation agreed.
- Allows acquiring authorities to withdraw notices within six weeks with compensation for losses. Covers severance, injurious affection, and equivalent reinstatement in compensation principles.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Bill 2025
24 Jun 2025 Enacted
- Rent increase cap (2% annually or inflation rate, whichever is lower) now applies nationwide, replacing separate zones with different rules.
- Areas not currently designated as rent pressure zones are deemed zones from day after Bill passes until 28 February 2026.
- Existing rent pressure zones extended to 28 February 2026; bi-annual rent reviews outside zones terminated as entire country becomes one zone.
Planning and Development (Stationary Battery Energy Storage Systems) Bill 2024
12 Jun 2025 Second Stage Current Martin Conway
- Bill amends planning rules to require environmental impact assessments for certain stationary battery energy storage system installations.
- Expands the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to classify specific battery storage projects as developments needing formal environmental review.
- Aims to ensure large-scale battery storage projects undergo environmental scrutiny before planning permission is granted.
Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2025
9 Jun 2025 Second Stage Current Brian Stanley
- Limits exports of electricity generated by wind turbines and requires public consultation on new wind turbine developments.
- Sets minimum distances between turbines and homes to protect against noise and shadow flicker; imposes duties on planning authorities.
- Requires turbine owners to establish financial reserves and plan decommissioning; enables community ownership; creates penalties for non-compliance.
Water Services (Repeal of Water Charges) Bill 2025
5 Jun 2025 Second Stage Defeated Mary Lou McDonald
- Repeals Part 2 of Water Services Act 2017, removing Uisce Éireann's power to charge domestic customers for water use exceeding a specified threshold.
- Eliminates the legal basis for imposing excess water charges on household users, preventing future charge implementation.
- Bill was defeated at Second Stage; the excess water charge power remains in law.
Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2022
28 May 2025 Second Stage Current Éamon Ó Cuív
- Removes the fixed deadline for registering domestic wastewater systems, allowing householders who missed the prescribed date to register now.
- Amends the Water Services Act 2007 by deleting provisions that barred pre-2012 system owners from ever registering after the deadline.
- Enables all remaining householders with unregistered domestic wastewater systems to complete registration at any time going forward.
Housing (Housing Assistance Payment Waiting Times) (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Bill 2021
28 May 2025 Second Stage Current Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
- Reduces social housing assessment processing time to 3 weeks, halving current timeframe, by amending the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009.
- Sets new 3-week statutory deadline for Housing Assistance Payment processing by local authorities, replacing previous 12-week timeframe.
- No additional exchequer costs anticipated; applies new processing deadlines to existing social housing and housing assistance schemes.
Planning And Development (Exempted Development - External Wall Insulation) Bill 2025
22 May 2025 Second Stage Current Richard Boyd Barrett
- External wall insulation work is exempted from needing planning permission, with limited exceptions.
- Amends the Planning and Development Act 2000 to streamline insulation upgrades on buildings.
- Specific exempted circumstances not detailed in long title; exact limitations require full bill text.
Dereliction and Building Regeneration Bill 2025
21 May 2025 Second Stage Current Malcolm Noonan
- Expands derelict building definition to include damaged, neglected, boarded-up, or disconnected properties; requires local authorities publish registers online and notify Minister after two years.
- Creates Town Centre First application process streamlining planning and building control approval for residential conversions, upper-floor refurbishments, and change-of-use in town centres.
- Establishes national Town Centre First Partnership office to provide guidance on refurbishment and retrofitting; requires housing department draft technical guidance for building regulations.
Urban Tree Protection and Sites Locally Important for Ecology Bill 2023
2 May 2025 Second Stage Current Steven Matthews
- Creates new 'Sites Locally Important for Ecology Order' designation for nature site protection, with local authorities maintaining public online registers and appeals process.
- Strengthens tree protection by requiring roads authorities to prioritize preserving, lopping or trimming trees over felling, and mandates replacement of cut-down trees.
- Makes Tree Preservation Orders compulsory consideration in council plans, allows public to request order amendments or revocation, and requires arborist reports before tree removal by public bodies.
Housing (Homeless Families) Bill 2017
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Jan O'Sullivan
- Amends Housing Act 1988 to require housing authorities to recognise homeless families as a family unit when a child is involved in accommodation requests.
- Makes child welfare a paramount consideration in housing authority decisions on homeless family accommodation, including interim or urgent assistance.
- Requires housing authorities to regard protecting families and providing safe accommodation as key to supporting family functioning and child development.
Derelict Sites (Amendment) Bill 2021
2 May 2025 Second Stage Current Seán Sherlock
- Creates a legal charge on derelict land for expenses incurred by local authorities taking action to prevent or remedy dereliction.
- Makes local authorities secured creditors, improving recovery prospects when insolvent property owners' assets are liquidated and distributed.
- Applies to expenses incurred after the Bill passes; amends the Derelict Sites Act 1990 by adding new subsection (5A) to section 11.
Defective Dwellings Bill 2021
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Francis Noel Duffy
- Creates statutory duty on builders, developers and sub-contractors to ensure dwellings meet Building Regulations and quality standards; applies to new construction and works on existing homes.
- Establishes two-year limitation period from when defect discovered, and ultimate fifteen-year period from completion; owners cannot be barred by earlier time limits.
- Allows homeowners and management companies to sue for defects without relying on contract; duty cannot be contracted out of and applies to first and subsequent purchasers.
Neighbour Disputes (Vegetation) Bill 2017
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Aengus Ó Snodaigh
- Creates a process for resolving neighbour disputes over vegetation causing nuisance, including blocked sunlight, via mediation and formal adjudication.
- Local authorities appoint adjudication officers to hear cases and make binding decisions; decisions can be appealed and enforced.
- Aims to provide structured alternative to court proceedings for vegetation-related neighbour conflicts.
Ban on Sex for Rent Bill 2022
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Cian O'Callaghan
- Creates a criminal offence for requiring or accepting sex as a condition of providing accommodation to someone.
- Creates a criminal offence for arranging or facilitating such sexual conditions for accommodation.
- Bill has no direct financial implications and applies from its commencement date.
Local Government (Mayor and Regional Authority of Dublin) Bill 2016
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Eamon Ryan
- Creates an elected Mayor covering Dublin City and three surrounding counties (Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Fingal, South Dublin).
- Establishes Regional Authority of Dublin to handle waste, planning, and other functions across the four local government areas.
- Amends existing laws (Waste Management Act 1996, Planning and Development Act 2000, Local Government Act 2001) to give Mayor and Authority their powers.
Local Government (Community Gardens) Bill 2023
2 May 2025 Second Stage Current Marc Ó Cathasaigh
- Local authorities must create and publish a community gardens policy every three years, setting conditions for developing, allocating, and using community gardens with Universal Design principles.
- Community members can apply to their local authority for community garden space; authorities must maintain waiting lists and allocate gardens based on published policy criteria.
- Local authorities must make bye-laws governing community garden use, publish policies online and in offices, and report annual progress on policy implementation.
Tenancy Protection Bill 2023
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Cian O'Callaghan
- Removes landlords' exemption from the 'Tyrrelstown Amendment' based on selling price impact, undue burden, or hardship.
- Prevents termination of 10+ tenancies within any 6-month period in multi-unit developments by deleting section 35A(3) of Residential Tenancies Act 2004.
- Strengthens tenant protections by eliminating financial hardship as grounds for large-scale evictions in multi-unit properties.
Residential Tenancies (Tenants' Rights) Bill 2021
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Ivana Bacik
- Extends landlord definition to include receivers and lienholders, ensuring tenants' rights protection when lenders repossess mortgaged rental properties.
- Removes landlord's right to terminate tenancies after 6 years without grounds and eliminates sale as termination ground, providing indefinite tenure security.
- Caps deposits at one month's rent, limits furnished-to-unfurnished conversion, restricts pet bans, and allows clothes-drying in gardens without landlord prohibition.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Bill 2024
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Mairéad Farrell
- This bill modifies the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, but the specific amendments aren't detailed in the provided information.
- The bill is sponsored by Mairéad Farrell and is currently at Committee Stage in the legislative process.
- Without access to the bill's text, the practical effects on tenants, landlords, or rental rules cannot be specified.
Planning and Development (Liquefied Natural Gas - LNG) (Amendment) Bill 2022
2 May 2025 Second Stage Current Neasa Hourigan
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to prohibit planning permission for LNG infrastructure developments.
- Removes LNG infrastructure from Schedule 7, ending its classification as strategic development infrastructure.
- Defines LNG infrastructure and prevents future LNG project approvals through planning law changes.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (Repeal of Part V Leasing) Bill 2021
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Cian O'Callaghan
- Repeals leasing provisions from Planning and Development Act 2000, requiring developers to provide affordable/social homes permanently rather than via lease arrangements.
- Removes option introduced by Urban Regeneration and Housing Act 2015 that allowed Part V obligations to be met through leasing instead of ownership.
- Ensures affordable and social homes remain state-secured long-term by eliminating temporary leasing as compliance method for developer housing contributions.
Anti-Evictions Bill 2018
2 May 2025 Committee Stage Current Ruth Coppinger
- Extends tenant rights in student accommodation and makes most tenancies indefinite-duration, requiring longer notice periods for termination.
- Removes property sale and renovation as eviction grounds; adds compensation when landlords need homes for personal use.
- Includes receivers and lenders as landlords; makes all tenancies over two months subject to Part 4 protections.
Building Energy Rating (BER) Standards for Private Rented Accommodation Bill 2025
11 Apr 2025 Second Stage Current Paul Murphy
- Requires private rented homes to achieve Building Energy Rating D2 by end 2026, C1 by end 2028, and B2 by end 2030.
- Amends Housing Act 1992 to make these minimum energy standards mandatory for all private rented accommodation.
- Prohibits landlords from terminating tenancies or raising rent based on energy efficiency improvements made to meet these standards.
Prohibition of Advertising or Importuning Sex for Rent Bill 2025
10 Apr 2025 Committee Stage Current Laura Harmon
- Bans soliciting or pressuring people to provide sex in exchange for reduced rent or free housing.
- Creates legal protection against landlords or housing providers conditioning accommodation on sexual services.
- Applies to all residential tenancies and housing arrangements where rent or housing access is involved.
Horticultural Peat (Temporary Measures) Bill 2021
28 Mar 2025 Second Stage Current Micheál Carrigy
- Exempts peat extraction for horticulture from planning permission and environmental licensing requirements for a temporary period to address supply shortages.
- Treats peat extraction for horticulture as an established activity; operators must apply for licences but face no enforcement action during exemption period.
- Minister must review the exemption within two years and may extend it, but cannot extend beyond 2030.
Community Participation (Disability) (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2019
5 Mar 2025 Committee Stage Current John Dolan
- Requires local authorities to design playgrounds and play equipment using Universal Design principles, enabling children with disabilities to play alongside peers.
- Mandates private bus operators on public routes maintain or enhance accessibility standards equal to public operators, increasing transport access for disabled people.
- Establishes statutory personal advocacy service with appointed Director to help disabled people access social services, and requires accessible changing facilities in large public buildings.
Planning and Development (An Taisce) Bill 2024
20 Feb 2025 Second Stage Defeated Mattie McGrath
- Removes An Taisce from four articles of Planning and Development Regulations 2001, ending its status as a prescribed authority entitled to receive notices on planning applications and local authority developments.
- Eliminates An Taisce's formal role in plan-making, planning permission notifications, local authority own development notices, and environmental impact assessments under the Planning Acts.
- Allows Minister to further amend the 2001 Regulations in future without constraint from this change.
Protection of Tenants' Deposits Bill 2025
14 Feb 2025 First Stage Current Paul Murphy
- Activates Section 61 of the 2015 Residential Tenancies Act, requiring tenant deposits be sent to the Residential Tenancies Board.
- Mandates a deposit protection scheme through regulations by the Housing Minister within 90 days of this Act's passage.
- Ends delay in implementing tenant deposit protections already legislated for but not yet commenced since 2015.
Arts (Amendment) (Artist Workspaces) Bill 2024
30 Jan 2025 First Stage Lapsed Fintan Warfield
- Increases affordable artist studios and workspaces by giving the Arts Council power to acquire, develop, and manage them.
- Allows local authorities to help provide affordable artist workspaces and artist-run workspaces in their areas.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; specific funding amounts, timelines, and implementation details not yet established.
Planning and Development (Built Heritage Protection) Bill 2022
30 Jan 2025 Second Stage Lapsed Victor Boyhan
- Requires planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála to employ Architectural Conservation Officers with building conservation qualifications to advise on heritage protection decisions.
- Removes planning authority discretion to permit demolition of protected structures; demolition requires first removing the building from the Record of Protected Structures via statutory process.
- Increases penalties for damage to heritage properties, removes defences for reckless damage, and mandates enforcement action within 3 working days when original fabric is at risk.
Land and Conveyancing Law Reform (Amendment) Bill 2021
30 Jan 2025 First Stage Lapsed Alice-Mary Higgins
- Amends the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 to extend the time period for registering easements and profits à prendre.
- Easements and profits à prendre are property rights allowing use of someone else's land; this bill extends the deadline to formally register them.
- Bill lapsed without enactment; the specific new time period is not stated in the long title provided.
Planning and Development (Solar Panels for Public Buildings, Schools, Homes and Other Premises) (Amendment) Bill 2021
30 Jan 2025 Committee Stage Lapsed Pauline O'Reilly
- Removes planning permission requirement for solar panels on schools and public buildings.
- Allows larger solar panel arrays on homes and industrial/agricultural buildings without planning permission restrictions.
- Permits ground-mounted solar panels up to 4 metres high; listed buildings remain protected.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Bill 2021
30 Jan 2025 First Stage Lapsed Barry Ward
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 section 105 to treat landlord evidence of intent to sell property as ordinary evidence, not 'strong evidence', in Tenancy Tribunal proceedings.
- Clarifies that landlords bear the burden of proof regarding validity of termination notices and statutory declarations in Tenancy Tribunal cases.
- Codifies High Court decisions (Gunn v RTB and Stulpinaite v RTB) into legislation governing evidentiary standards and proof obligations at Tenancy Tribunals.
Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2021
30 Jan 2025 Second Stage Lapsed Rebecca Moynihan
- Blocks planning applications to change student accommodation use to permanent residential housing or tourist accommodation for 15 years after development completion.
- Applies to all student accommodation, whether purpose-built or converted, excluding permanent homes and hotel-like facilities during academic terms.
- Prevents planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála from granting such change-of-use applications during the 15-year restriction period.
Planning and Development Bill 2023
9 Jan 2025 Enacted
- Replaces Planning and Development Act 2000. Extends development plan lifespan from six to ten years, makes them more strategic, and replaces mandatory local area plans with flexible area-based plans.
- Creates National Planning Statements (replacing ministerial guidelines) requiring mandatory alignment with national policies. Establishes Urban Development Zones for state-led infrastructure investment in high-development-potential areas.
- Renames An Bord Pleanála to An Coimisiún Pleanála with separated corporate and decision-making functions. Introduces mandatory statutory timelines for all consent processes and an Environmental Legal Costs Assistance Mechanism for judicial review applicants.
Land (Zoning Value Sharing) Bill 2024
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed
- Requires planning authorities to identify zoned land, assess its value before and after zoning, establish land value registers, and allow landowners to appeal valuations.
- Imposes obligation to pay 25% of zoning value increase to planning authorities as condition of planning permission; unpaid amounts become charges on the land.
- Requires authorities use payments for public infrastructure, facilities and services supporting residential development and housing supply in their areas.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (No. 3) Bill 2024
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed
- Tenants receiving eviction notices for landlord sale must be offered 90 days to bid for the property; landlord cannot sell during this period except to the tenant or approved housing bodies.
- RTB can award damages for breaches of the first refusal rules, but cannot force resumed possession if a sale has already completed, balancing tenant and landlord rights.
- RTB hearings must be held in public unless special circumstances warrant privacy; Garda or housing officer statements may be admitted as evidence in anti-social behaviour cases.
Residential Tenancies (Illegal Evictions) (Amendment) Bill 2024
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Creates criminal offence of forcibly ending a tenancy; gardaí can arrest without warrant those suspected of committing it.
- Allows Residential Tenancies Board to award exemplary damages up to €40,000 where illegal eviction is found to have occurred.
- Requires Property Services Regulatory Authority, Revenue Commissioners and landlord agents to share tenant/landlord identity data with the Board for enforcement purposes.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (Sex for Rent) Bill 2024
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Makes it a criminal offence for landlords to seek sex from tenants instead of rent or to advertise such arrangements.
- Amends section 19 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to create this new offence.
- Applies to advertisements on social media and other platforms offering or requesting sex in exchange for housing.
Planning and Development (Climate Emergency Measures) (Amendment) Bill 2023
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Bríd Smith
- Restricts planning authorities from approving new fossil fuel infrastructure and high-energy data centres during the climate emergency period, as declared by Dáil Éireann.
- Removes LNG terminals and other fossil fuel projects from the seventh schedule, preventing them from being classified as strategic infrastructure and bypassing An Bord Pleanála direct applications.
- Requires An Bord Pleanála to assess planning applications against State climate targets, national climate objective, and atmospheric CO2 levels; may consult EPA on consistency.
Planning and Development (Provision of Public Housing) Bill 2023
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Chris Andrews
- Repeals section 97(3)(b) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, removing a specific planning provision.
- Amends section 97 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as previously modified in 2002.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; no amendments to planning rules for public housing provision were enacted.
Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2023
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Gives An Bord Pleanála power to determine applications and appeals pending 12+ months within 18 weeks.
- Prohibits An Bord Pleanála refusing permission solely because relevant considerations changed since application was made, unless applicant given chance to respond.
- Clarifies Board's power to request information and invite submissions from parties and public on pending strategic housing, infrastructure and direct applications.
Education (Inclusion of Persons) Bill 2023
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Chris Andrews
- Schools must publish inclusion policies with objectives for special needs classes; must consider special educational needs organiser recommendations in admissions and school plans; must explain publicly if they reject recommendations.
- Government must publish data on spending for transporting special needs students outside their planning areas and numbers without school places; NCSE must report annually on planning transparency.
- Disabled persons organisations gain role in agreeing school board composition; special educational needs organisers gain function to recommend accommodation actions to school boards.
Public Art Mural (Exempted Development) Bill 2023
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to exempt certain public art murals from needing planning permission if they have artistic or cultural merit and owner consent.
- Exemption applies only to murals on private property that are not commercial ads and comply with Equal Status Acts; excludes listed structures and conservation areas.
- Defines key terms: 'artistic or cultural merit', 'commercial advertisement', and 'public art mural' to establish eligibility criteria for the exemption.
Eviction Ban Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Richard Boyd Barrett
- Bans landlords from serving eviction notices during a 12-month emergency period, except for serious property damage, anti-social behaviour, or insurance issues.
- Extends any termination notices already served with end dates during the emergency period until after the emergency period ends.
- Allows government to renew the ban beyond 12 months if the Minister for Housing deems it in public interest due to cost-of-living and housing crises.
Planning and Development Regulations (Amendment) (Solar Energy for Schools and Community Buildings) Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
- Amends Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to exempt solar panel installation on schools and community buildings from requiring planning permission.
- Defines 'school' and 'community building' in the regulations to determine which structures qualify for the solar panel exemption.
- Removes administrative barrier to renewable energy adoption by eliminating planning permission requirement for solar installations on specified public buildings.
Planning and Development (Ministerial Guidelines) Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Róisín Shortall
- Removes obligation for planning authorities, regional assemblies, and An Bord Pleanála to comply with Minister's section 28 planning guidelines.
- Deletes provision allowing guidelines to contain Specific Planning Policy Requirements that bodies must follow in performing functions.
- Restores local authority power to draft development plans reflecting their own council areas' needs independent of mandatory ministerial guidelines.
Dereliction and Building Regeneration Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Steven Matthews
- Expands derelict building definition to include boarded-up, damaged, or disconnected properties; requires online register publication and modern notice methods.
- Establishes 'Town Centre First' fast-track planning and building approval process for converting vacant upper floors and commercial spaces to residential use.
- Creates national Town Centre First Partnership office to guide local authorities on refurbishment of existing buildings with tailored technical guidance on fire safety and access.
Short-term Lettings Enforcement Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Makes it illegal for estate agents and online platforms to advertise short-term lettings in rent pressure zones that don't comply with 2019 planning exemption regulations.
- Empowers Housing Minister to issue spot fines against non-compliant advertisers, agents, and online platforms offering illegal short-term lettings.
- Adds new enforcement offence to Planning and Development Act 2000 targeting properties advertised for short-term rent without proper planning compliance.
Local Government and Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (Carrigaline Rent Pressure Zone) Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
- Designates entire Carrigaline local electoral area as a rent pressure zone under the Local Government Act 2019.
- Requires Minister to prescribe full local electoral area as rent pressure zone if substantial portion already qualifies and conditions are met.
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to create statutory obligation for Minister to extend rent pressure zone coverage area-wide.
Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Mattie McGrath
- Requires Minister for Housing to produce and submit annual reports to parliament on Project Ireland 2040 implementation progress.
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to place Project Ireland 2040, National Planning Framework, and National Development Plan on statutory footing.
- Enables annual parliamentary debate allowing TDs to scrutinise Project Ireland 2040 delivery and funding allocations for democratic accountability.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (Breach of Building Regulations) Bill 2022
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends section 35 of Planning and Development Act 2000 to require planning authorities to consider past building regulation breaches when deciding planning applications.
- Makes a property owner's history of non-compliance with building regulations relevant to future planning permission decisions.
- Creates a mechanism linking building regulation enforcement to the planning permission process for the first time.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (Extension of Notice Periods) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to automatically extend notice periods by three months when a local authority certifies a tenant as at-risk of homelessness.
- Local authority must certify tenant cannot secure alternative accommodation and will become homeless upon quitting the dwelling to trigger the extension.
- Aims to give tenants time to find housing and allow local authorities to provide homelessness prevention support before emergency accommodation entry.
Seller’s Legal Pack for Property Buyers Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Marc MacSharry
- Requires sellers to compile and advertise a standardized legal document pack with properties, containing key information to give buyers upfront access to conveyancing details.
- Aims to reduce property transaction times, costs, and fallen-through sales by front-loading legal information rather than handling it after sale agreement.
- Applies when sellers list properties for sale; pack covers exceptions and includes enforcement provisions aligned with existing conveyancing and property registration laws.
Health (Inspection of Emergency Homeless Accommodation and Asylum Seekers Accommodation) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Expands Health Information and Quality Authority's inspection powers to cover emergency homeless accommodation funded by local authorities and asylum seeker reception centres.
- Amends Health Act 2007 to add five new accommodation types as 'designated centres' subject to Authority oversight and quality standards.
- Requires Health Minister to obtain consent from Housing and Children Ministers before approving standards for these facilities.
Housing (Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Pauline Tully
- Requires local authorities to decide on housing adaptation grant applications within four weeks where possible.
- Establishes powers for the Minister to make regulations governing the housing adaptation grant scheme.
- Aims to improve access to housing adaptation grants for people with disabilities through streamlined processes.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (20 per cent Provision of Social and Affordable Housing) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Removes exemption allowing developers with pre-2026 planning permission to avoid providing 20% social and affordable housing.
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 by deleting sunset clause in section 96(3)(j) that permitted exemption from Part V requirements.
- Makes 20% social and affordable housing requirement mandatory for all developers regardless of when planning permission was secured.
Ban on Rent Increases Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Freezes all rent increases for three years; existing tenancies locked at enactment date rates.
- New tenancies priced using Residential Tenancies Board rent index for equivalent properties in local area.
- Rent freeze subject to annual review during the three-year prohibition period.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (First-Time Buyers) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Paul McAuliffe
- Allows local authorities to reserve up to 30% of residential zoned land for first-time home buyers in their housing strategies.
- Requires local authorities to separately assess build-to-rent housing needs in their housing strategies, distinct from other housing requirements.
- Permits local authorities to exempt build-to-rent developments from first-time buyer reservation requirements if aligned with rental housing strategy targets.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Reduces An Bord Pleanála decision timelines across multiple planning appeal types from 14-18 weeks to 10-12 weeks.
- Allows Minister to prescribe different timeframes by regulation, generally or for specific appeal classes.
- Aims to speed up planning application resolutions for businesses, householders, and other applicants.
Road Traffic (Amendment) (Electric Scooter Trials) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed John Lahart
- Authorizes time-limited trials of electric scooters through approved rental schemes, allowing the Minister for Transport to regulate their use during trial periods.
- Restricts trials to shared/hire schemes rather than privately-owned scooters, enabling safety controls like speed governance, helmet requirements, and geo-fencing via GPS.
- Aims to establish universal safety standards and build public confidence in electric scooters as micro-mobility transport before wider introduction.
Residential Tenancies (Student Rents and Other Protections) (Covid-19) Bill 2021
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Landlords must refund rent and charges to student tenants unable to occupy accommodation due to Covid-19 public health guidance or legislation compliance.
- Student tenants cannot be required to pay rent more than one month in advance and need give only 28 days' notice to end tenancy.
- Unpaid rent covered by refund entitlement is not considered arrears; disputes over refunds can be resolved through the Residential Tenancies Board.
Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992 to require landlords prove compliance with minimum and fire safety standards before renting a property.
- Landlords must obtain independent inspection certificates from qualified professionals and submit them to Residential Tenancies Board during tenancy registration.
- Minister sets certification fees and can phase rollout for existing rental properties over four years.
Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Brian Stanley
- Restricts export of electricity generated by wind turbines and requires public consultation on new wind turbine developments.
- Sets minimum setback distances from dwellings to protect against noise and shadow flicker; assigns planning authority duties.
- Places financial and decommissioning obligations on turbine owners; enables community ownership models for wind turbines.
Homeless Prevention Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Defines persons at risk of homelessness in law and authorizes Minister and local authorities to provide preventive supports.
- Requires local authorities to assess at-risk individuals/families at least 60 days before homelessness and create prevention plans.
- Obligates local authorities to provide information and advice services to those at risk of becoming homeless.
Residential Tenancies (Extension of Eviction Ban) Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Paul Murphy
- Extends ban on evictions and rent increases for six months from enactment, with government power to extend the period further if in public interest.
- Prevents landlords serving termination notices during emergency period; revises termination dates already set within that period to after it ends.
- Repeals provisions of Residential Tenancies and Valuation Act 2020 and guarantees tenants' right to remain in dwellings until emergency period expires.
Latent Defects Redress Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Creates independent Latent Defects Redress Board to provide information, mediation, and adjudication for homeowners with non-compliant homes.
- Board will assess homes for latent defects including fire safety and structural issues, and review penalties for developer/builder breaches.
- Minister appoints establishment day and determines Board's powers to help owners address building regulation non-compliance.
Housing (Temporary Provisions regarding Short-term Lettings) Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Peadar Tóibín
- Temporarily bans short-term lettings of 28 days or less in cities and large towns to free up dwellings for standard rental market.
- Bill operates temporarily; can end early if Oireachtas certifies enough houses available for rent to meet housing demand.
- Commencement one week after passing, with definitions and exceptions detailed in the bill's provisions.
Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (Right to Housing) Bill 2020
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Richard Boyd Barrett
- Adds constitutional right to housing under Article 43, making it judicially enforceable rather than merely aspirational.
- Limits private property rights where necessary to protect housing rights and serve the common good.
- Requires constitutional amendment via Article 46 process; bill lapsed before progressing beyond Second Stage.
Rent Freeze (Fair Rent) Bill 2019
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to freeze rents for three years on all existing and new tenancies.
- Rent freeze can only be extended by vote in the Houses of the Oireachtas; Residential Tenancies Board will index-link rents to local areas.
- Directs Minister for Finance to commission report on costs and structure of introducing refundable tax relief for tenants alongside freeze.
No Consent, No Sale Bill 2019
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Pearse Doherty
- Requires lenders to obtain written borrower consent before selling residential mortgages to third parties, making the Central Bank's voluntary code mandatory in law.
- Mandates lenders disclose specific information to borrowers and confirm the transferee will maintain identical arrears and interest rate policies, or obtain explicit separate consent.
- Exempts transfers only in extreme cases where the lender faces serious business difficulties meeting Central Bank standards for failing institutions.
Urban Regeneration and Housing (Amendment) Bill 2018
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Mick Wallace
- Increases the vacant site levy and modifies how it works under the 2015 Urban Regeneration and Housing Act.
- Allows owners of vacant sites to negotiate directly with local authorities or state agencies to sell at a discounted percentage value.
- Bill lapsed at Second Stage; status unknown regarding reintroduction or successor legislation.
Residential Tenancies (Greater Security of Tenure and Rent Certainty) Bill 2018
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Jan O'Sullivan
- Extends 'landlord' definition to include receivers and persons with charges on mortgaged rental properties, ensuring they remain bound by tenancy terms and obligations.
- Limits annual rent increases in all areas to inflation rate (currently 4% in Rent Pressure Zones) and declares all remaining areas as Rent Pressure Zones for 3 years.
- Removes landlord's right to end Part Four tenancies after 6 years without grounds; prohibits termination for sale; allows refurbishment termination only if property cannot remain habitable.
Overcrowded Housing Bill 2018
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Creates legal definition of overcrowding in housing and sets standards for Planning Authorities to assess it under Housing Acts.
- Increases penalties for building owners who provide overcrowded accommodation.
- Bill did not complete parliamentary process; lapsed without becoming law.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Bill 2018
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Catherine Murphy
- Extends the minimum notice period landlords must give before ending a tenancy.
- Requires rent data to be made available so tenants can access pricing information.
- Increases the maximum fines that can be imposed under residential tenancy laws.
Vacant Housing Refurbishment Bill 2017
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Creates expedited 'one-stop-shop' approval process in each council for residential conversions, refurbishments, and change-of-use developments, with design and planning decisions achievable within one to two working days.
- Establishes new exempted development categories subject to council confirmation, with independent council-employed inspectors certifying compliance via standardized checklists instead of traditional building completion certificates.
- Amends planning law to allow expedited section 5 exempted-development declarations within 2 weeks for standard cases and 4 weeks for protected structures, replacing the standard 4 and 12-week timeframes.
Waste Reduction (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2017
14 Nov 2024 First Stage Lapsed Brian Stanley
- Amends Waste Management Act 1996, Litter Pollution Act 1997, and Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to address waste reduction.
- Specific amendments and practical effects not detailed in available information; bill lapsed at First Stage without full text.
- Sponsored by Brian Stanley; did not progress through Dáil, so changes were never enacted into law.
Social Housing Bill 2016
14 Nov 2024 Second Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to require higher percentages of social and affordable housing in private residential developments.
- Applies increased social housing requirements to strategic development zones as well as standard residential projects.
- Bill lapsed without becoming law; specific percentage requirements and implementation details not specified in long title.
Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024
4 Nov 2024 Enacted
- Permanently registers approved housing bodies previously set to lose registration on 1 January 2025, removing the requirement to reapply and ensuring continued regulatory oversight.
- Allows Ministers to prescribe household composition for cost rental eligibility and permits alternative allocation methods with additional tenant selection criteria beyond standard processes.
- Expands regulatory coverage to include all state-funded properties under the 1992 Housing Act and cost rental properties, detaching regulation from individual organisation constitutions.
Planning and Development and Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- An Bord Pleanála can now have up to 14 permanent members (plus temporary appointees) instead of a fixed number; Minister can increase this via order without Oireachtas approval.
- Replaced nominating-body system with independent, objective procedure for recommending board members; removed one-third limit on members appointed under subsection 104(4).
- Foreshore Act definition expanded to include water column above seabed; applies retroactively to existing leases, licences, and pending applications unless it conflicts with constitutional rights.
Residential Tenancies (Deferment of Termination Dates of Certain Tenancies) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Defers termination dates of tenancies ending between bill's enactment and 31 March 2023, unless termination is for tenant breach, rent arrears, or accommodation mismatch.
- Requires short-term tenancies (under 6 months) without tenant breach to have termination date no earlier than 18 June 2023; earlier notices are invalid.
- Phases deferred terminations over time to manage housing service demand from the deferral period.
Development (Emergency Electricity Generation) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Removes requirement for standard planning permission under Planning and Development Act 2000 for two emergency electricity generation projects (up to 450MW total) at Shannonbridge and Tarbert.
- Exempts designated projects from standard environmental impact assessment rules; replaces with alternative assessment conducted by An Bord Pleanála, coordinated with habitat protection assessment.
- Minister may approve, partially approve, or refuse projects after reviewing assessments and mitigation measures; must notify European Commission of exemption decision and reasons.
Water Environment (Abstractions and Associated Impoundments) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Establishes modern registration and licensing system for water abstractions administered by EPA, replacing outdated 1942-1964 legislation; registration required above minimum threshold, licensing above higher threshold.
- Grants Irish Water emergency powers to abstract water during drought or other crises; provides compensation for material adverse effects on third-party water rights from public abstractions.
- Repeals Water Supplies Act 1942 and related provisions; requires Environmental Impact Assessments for certain abstractions; allows Irish Water to abstract from ESB reservoirs with agreement.
Tailte Éireann Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Establishes Tailte Éireann by merging the Valuation Office, Property Registration Authority, and Ordnance Survey Ireland into a single body to manage property and spatial data.
- Dissolves Property Registration Authority and Ordnance Survey Ireland, transferring their functions and assets to Tailte Éireann on establishment day.
- Transfers functions of Commissioner of Valuation and Boundary Surveyor to Tailte Éireann; all staff, land, property, rights and liabilities vest automatically in the new body.
Rent Reduction Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 First Stage Defeated Gino Kenny
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to cap rents at maximum quarter of median household income (local or national, whichever lower), applying to new tenancies immediately and existing tenancies within 12 months.
- Establishes National Rent Authority to determine median incomes by household size, set maximum household sizes per accommodation category, and designate luxury accommodation (capped at 5% of rental stock per area).
- Luxury accommodation is excluded from rent caps. Authority composed of tenant and employee representatives. Bill enters force within 90 days of Presidential promulgation.
Remediation of Dwellings Damaged By the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Establishes statutory grant scheme for homeowners with dwellings damaged by defective concrete blocks in Donegal, Mayo, Clare and Limerick; Housing Agency assesses damage and determines remediation options and grant amounts.
- Provides grants for remediation works, alternative accommodation, storage and immediate repairs; includes second grant opportunity for homes where retained blockwork later proves defective after initial non-demolition repairs.
- Creates independent Appeals Panel and Board for disputes; charges rented properties with grant amount (reducing 5% annually if property remains rented); revokes 2020 Regulations with transitional protections for existing applicants.
Planning and Development, Maritime and Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Removes the two-stage 'leave to apply' process for substitute consent applications, allowing single-stage applications directly to An Bord Pleanála for unauthorised developments requiring retrospective Environmental Impact Assessment or Appropriate Assessment.
- Extends simultaneous application rules to allow applicants to apply for future development permissions alongside substitute consent applications for all development types, not just quarries.
- Requires planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála to screen retention applications for Environmental Impact Assessment and Appropriate Assessment requirements, and refuse to consider applications where such assessments are required.
Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Establishes Circular Economy Fund to replace Environment Fund; Minister manages fund for circular economy activities and publishes strategy every 3 years with waste reduction and reuse targets.
- Imposes environmental levy (€0.20–€1.00 per item) on single-use cups, containers, packaging and plastic bags supplied at retail; Minister may prohibit supply of certain items if reusable alternatives are available.
- Authorizes local authorities to operate CCTV and mobile recording devices for waste enforcement; requires Chief Executive approval and 5-yearly review; regulates by code of practice approved by Minister and laid before Oireachtas.
Finance (Covid-19 and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Extends Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme to businesses meeting new eligibility criteria; allows previously-exited employers to re-enter with enhanced subsidy rates through May 2022.
- Exempts frontline healthcare workers from income tax, USC and PRSI on Pandemic Special Recognition Payments up to €1,000; expands Covid Restrictions Support Scheme eligibility and increases turnover threshold.
- Extends tax debt warehousing scheme (PAYE, income tax, VAT, PRSI) to 30 April 2022 for Covid-impacted businesses; waives excise duty on special exemption orders; repays stamp duty overpayments on cost rental dwellings.
Institutional Burials Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Government appoints a Director to excavate institutional burial sites and recover human remains buried in manifestly inappropriate circumstances, with oversight by an Advisory Board.
- Establishes an Identification Programme allowing eligible family members to participate in DNA identification of recovered remains, with Forensic Science Ireland managing a DNA database.
- Grants Director legal powers to access burial land, suspend conflicting exhumation licenses, and compel information from public bodies; amends Taxes and Planning Acts accordingly.
Regulation of Providers of Building Works and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2022
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Creates Construction Industry Register Ireland to register and regulate building works providers; government appoints registration body to assess competence, set standards, investigate complaints, and impose sanctions.
- Registered providers must demonstrate relevant qualifications or practical experience, maintain public liability insurance, comply with continuing professional development, and notify material changes to registration body.
- Establishes appeals process: complaints investigated by inspectors; Board determines sanctions (removal, suspension, or division restrictions); appeals go to Appeals Committee then High Court for major sanctions.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Rent increases in Rent Pressure Zones capped at 2% per annum (down from general inflation rate); review of this cap required within 15 months.
- New tenancies starting 6+ months after enactment automatically become unlimited-duration after 6 months; landlords can only terminate on limited grounds.
- Temporary waiver of annual registration fees for further Part 4 tenancies registered before mandatory annual registration begins (expected Q1 2022).
Planning and Development (Amendment) (Large-scale Residential Development) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Replaces Strategic Housing Development process with new Large-scale Residential Development process, requiring mandatory pre-application consultation and planning authority opinion before formal application submission.
- Sets mandatory 16-week decision timeframe for appeals with no oral hearing; imposes €10,000 penalty if An Bord Pleanála exceeds deadline.
- Allows any planning appeal party to apply directly to Supreme Court, bypassing Court of Appeal, to reduce litigation timescale.
Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Repeals sections 33-39 of the 2009 Act, removing the 30 November 2021 deadline for registering prescriptive easements and profits à prendre under new legal rules.
- Claims after the Bill's enactment will be decided under pre-2009 judge-made law ('doctrine of lost modern grant'), reverting from mandatory to optional registration with the Property Registration Authority.
- Longer prescription periods (30 years for State land, 60 years for foreshore) still apply to claims against State-owned land, while pending applications remain unaffected by these changes.
Property Services (Land Price Register) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Second Stage Defeated Cian O'Callaghan
- Expands Residential Property Price Register to include property size and owner details for non-primary residences; makes it searchable electronically.
- Creates new Land and Other Non-Residential Transaction Database capturing land/property prices, ownership, location, zoning, and sale dates; publicly searchable.
- Broadens Commercial Leases Database to include lessor/lessee names and addresses; makes it electronically searchable.
Maritime Area Planning Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Creates Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) to grant maritime area consents for long-term maritime activities and licences for short-term or minor uses in Irish waters.
- Establishes National Marine Planning Framework with Maritime Spatial Plans; local authorities decide nearshore cases (within 3 nautical miles), An Bord Pleanála handles offshore and cross-authority projects.
- Extends planning permission system to maritime area; makes Maritime Area Consent a gateway to planning permission; creates enforcement powers for MARA (offshore) and local authorities (nearshore).
Finance (Local Property Tax) (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Residential properties revalued 1 November 2021; establishes new valuation dates and 4-year valuation periods after 2025.
- Replaces LPT charging methodology with wider value bands and three tax rates; introduces fixed charges of €90 and €225 for lower bands.
- Raises income thresholds for LPT deferral from €15,000 to €18,000 (single) and €25,000 to €30,000 (couples); reduces deferral interest rate from 4% to 3%.
Residential Tenancies (No. 2) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Extends emergency protections from rent increases and evictions for Covid-19-affected tenants in arrears until 12 January 2022.
- Caps upfront payments (deposit plus advance rent) at 2 months' rent maximum, and limits regular advance rent to 1 month only.
- Requires students in student accommodation to give minimum 28 days' termination notice; allows them to opt out of upfront payment caps.
Planning and Development (Climate Emergency Measures) (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 First Stage Defeated Bríd Smith
- Prohibits planning authorities from approving new fossil fuel infrastructure and high-energy data centres during climate emergency period (while Dáil declares emergency and global CO2 exceeds 350 ppm).
- Removes LNG terminals and other fossil fuel projects from strategic infrastructure list, preventing direct applications to An Bord Pleanála.
- Requires An Bord Pleanála to assess whether developments align with State's climate targets and commits, with EPA consultation option.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (No. 3) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Planning authorities can extend existing development plans by up to one year while preparing new ones, subject to environmental and appropriate assessments, due to Covid-19 disruption.
- Planning authorities get up to one additional year to complete development plan reviews and preparation if they started the process before this Bill's passage.
- Planning permissions can be extended by up to two years or until end of 2023 where development cannot be completed within the original timeframe, if substantial works were carried out.
Nursing Homes Support Scheme (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Extends three-year cap on nursing home costs to family-owned farms and businesses if a family successor commits to working the asset for six years from appointment.
- Requires Health Service Executive to assess eligibility, appoint family successors, conduct compliance reviews, and recoup relief if conditions are breached during the relevant period.
- Allows people in care to appoint replacements if a family successor dies or becomes unable to work the asset, and permits asset transfers without triggering repayment obligations under certain circumstances.
Affordable Housing Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Housing authorities can provide affordable dwellings for purchase through direct sale or financial assistance for open market properties, with housing authority retaining equity share in the property.
- Homeowners can redeem the authority's equity through periodic payments (minimum €7,500-€10,000), by selling the property, or the authority can force realisation after 25-30 years or on breach of terms.
- Eligibility requires applicants to be first-time buyers earning below 90% mortgage threshold, living in authority area one year, with priority schemes allocating 70% by need and 30% by local discretion.
Planning and Development (Strategic Housing Developments) (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 First Stage Withdrawn Róisín Shortall
- Removes mandatory ministerial planning guidelines requirement; planning authorities must only 'have regard to' guidelines, not comply with them.
- Ends fast-track strategic housing development approvals process; no new applications to planning board allowed after bill passes.
- Increases Strategic Housing Division board members and quorum requirements to support greater public participation in planning decisions.
Planning and Development, Heritage and Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to allow Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to exercise heritage functions including commenting on planning applications and development plans without breaching section 30 prohibition on ministerial control of particular cases.
- Transfers heritage-related powers from Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage across Wildlife Acts, European site designation regulations, and protected structures provisions to resolve constitutional issues with ministerial function merging.
- Amends Broadcasting Act 2009 to remove references to Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism and allow Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to consult appropriate ministers on broadcasting matters.
Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Government must set carbon budgets targeting 51% emissions reduction by 2030 (baseline 2018) and achieve climate neutrality by end-2050, with annual climate action plans and five-yearly long-term strategies.
- Ministers must comply with sectoral emissions ceilings for their sectors and report annually to parliament on progress against climate targets, carbon budgets, and adaptation measures.
- Climate Change Advisory Council expanded to 13 members plus three ex-officio directors, with expertise in climate science, energy, agriculture, transport, and other designated areas; proposes carbon budgets to Minister.
Residential Tenancies Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Extends emergency tenant protections until 12 July 2021: 90-day notice periods for eviction (instead of 28 days) and prohibition on rent increases for affected tenants.
- Amends Planning and Development, and Residential Tenancies Act 2020 and Residential Tenancies Act 2020 to align eviction moratorium rules during 5km restrictions with enhanced notice requirements.
- Provides temporary financial protection for tenants in rent arrears due to Covid-19 while preserving landlords' constitutional property rights through procedural safeguards.
Land Development Agency Bill 2021
11 Sep 2024 Enacted
- Creates Land Development Agency as a public company to acquire and develop public land for housing in towns over 10,000 population; establishes a public register of available land.
- Requires a portion of housing built on public land be made affordable through cost rental, transfer to planning authorities, or affordable housing schemes under existing law.
- Grants Agency power to compulsorily purchase land needed for housing access or infrastructure, after attempting voluntary acquisition; dissolves prior Agency entity and transfers its assets and staff.
Residential Tenancies (Deferment of Termination Dates of Certain Tenancies) (No. 2) Bill 2023
30 Aug 2024 Second Stage Defeated Eoin Ó Broin
- Defers termination dates of residential tenancies expiring between bill passage and 31 March 2024, unless grounds involve tenant breach or rent arrears.
- Extends short-term tenancies (under 6 months) to 18 June 2024 minimum if tenant is not in breach of obligations.
- Phases deferred terminations to spread housing demand on services over time after the winter emergency period ends.
Rent Reduction Bill 2023
30 Aug 2024 First Stage Defeated Richard Boyd Barrett
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to cap rents at maximum of one-quarter of local or national median monthly household income, whichever is lower, based on household size.
- Establishes National Rent Authority composed of tenant and employee representatives to determine income thresholds, set maximum household sizes, and designate luxury accommodation (capped at 5% of local stock).
- Applies rent limits immediately to new tenancies and to existing tenancies within 12 months of the Act coming into force; excludes luxury accommodation from restrictions.
Residential Tenancies (Deferment of Termination Dates of Certain Tenancies) Bill 2023
30 Aug 2024 First Stage Defeated Eoin Ó Broin
- Defers termination dates of residential tenancies ending between bill passage and 31 January 2024, except those involving tenant breach or non-payment of rent.
- Requires short-term tenancies (under 6 months) with no tenant breach to have new termination date of at least 18 April 2024.
- Phases terminations over time to reduce pressure on housing services from deferred evictions during winter emergency period.
Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2024
30 Aug 2024 Enacted
- Limits student accommodation tenancies to maximum 41 weeks per year unless tenant agrees otherwise; breach by landlord is improper conduct subject to RTB sanctions.
- Allows advance rent payments exceeding one month only where student pays both rent and tuition fees to same provider.
- Permits student tenants to terminate fixed-term tenancies by serving 28-day notice between 1 May and 1 October annually, regardless of landlord breach.
Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024
30 Aug 2024 Enacted
- Increases Court of Appeal ordinary judges from 17 to 18, requiring amendment to Courts (Establishment and Constitution) Act 1961.
- Raises criminal penalties: knife offences from 5–7 years imprisonment; offensive weapons manufacturing from 7–10 years; carrier fines for undocumented passengers from €3,000 to €5,000.
- Allows Ministers to set retirement ages for prison officers, firefighters, and gardaí via regulation; fast accrual pensions apply only until age 60 for uniformed staff.
Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) (No. 2) Bill 2024
30 Aug 2024 Enacted
- Gives Chief Inspector new enforcement powers: issue compliance notices, inspect unregistered premises suspected of operating as nursing homes, and reduce decision timelines from 28 to 14 days.
- Requires Chief Inspector to collect, share with Minister/HIQA/HSE, and publish aggregate data on nursing homes; makes false information submission an offence.
- Expands eligible family successors under Nursing Homes Support Scheme to include cousins, great-nephews/nieces, and great-grandchildren; clarifies farm asset relief provisions.
Local Government (Mayor of Limerick) and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2023
30 Aug 2024 Enacted
- Establishes directly elected Mayor of Limerick with 5-year term, re-electable for maximum 2 full terms, with executive powers transferred from Chief Executive and Cathaoirleach.
- Renames Chief Executive to Director General and Cathaoirleach to Príomh Chomhairleoir; creates supporting structures including Mayoral Advisory Committee and Government Consultative Forum.
- Amends Electoral Acts 1992 and 1997 to govern Limerick Mayoral elections including spending limits, donation disclosures, and enables plebiscites on direct Mayors in other local authorities.
Historic and Archaeological Heritage and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2023
30 Aug 2024 Enacted
- Repeals 1930–2014 National Monuments Acts; replaces with unified Register of Monuments protecting archaeological and historic sites without need for formal designation.
- Requires finders to report prescribed monuments within 72 hours; Minister conducts inspections and enters sites in Register; protects discoveries automatically.
- Applies special protection to monuments owned/guarded by Minister or local authority; regulates works via licensing; implements EIA and Habitats Directives.
Planning and Development (Protect Social Housing) Bill 2020
31 Mar 2022 First Stage Defeated Chris Andrews
- Repeals section 97 subsection (3B) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, removing a specific provision governing planning permissions.
- Amends the Planning and Development Act 2000 by deleting subsection (3B) of section 97 as previously amended in 2002.
- No substantive details provided in memorandum on what subsection (3B) currently does or why its removal protects social housing.
Planning and Development (Climate Measures) (Amendment) Bill 2019
17 Jun 2021 First Stage Withdrawn Bríd Smith
- Removes liquefied natural gas terminals and other fossil fuel projects from the list of strategic developments that can apply directly to An Bord Pleanála.
- Requires An Bord Pleanála to assess whether proposed strategic infrastructure projects align with Ireland's climate goals and reduce CO2 emissions nationally and globally.
- Allows An Bord Pleanála to consult the Environmental Protection Agency on whether projects meet climate criteria before approval.
Planning and Development, and Residential Tenancies, Bill 2020
11 May 2021 Enacted
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to require An Bord Pleanála to refuse substitute consent applications unless exceptional circumstances exist, with mandatory public participation on this question.
- Allows Government to make emergency orders extending statutory planning and building control timeframes during Covid-19 periods, with flexibility to target specific areas and provisions.
- Increases notice period for rent arrears evictions from 28 to 90 days during 11 January to 12 April 2021; prohibits rent increases during same period for tenants declaring Covid-19 hardship.
Residential Tenancies Bill 2020
9 Nov 2020 Enacted
- Temporarily prohibits landlords from ending tenancies in areas under Covid-19 travel restrictions (5km limit), except for anti-social behaviour or unauthorised non-residential use.
- Suspends notice periods during emergency period; time spent under restrictions does not count toward tenancy termination notice deadlines.
- Protects tenants already served notice pre-emergency by allowing them to remain until restrictions end, subject to existing tenancy terms.
Forestry (Planning Permission) (Amendment) Bill 2018
6 Nov 2020 Second Stage Defeated Martin Kenny
- Requires planning permission for all forestry projects over 5 hectares, changing previous exemptions under the Forestry Act 2014.
- Amends the Planning and Development Act 2000 to include new forestry permission requirements in planning law.
- Bill was defeated at Second Stage; did not proceed to further legislative consideration.
Ban on Rent Increases Bill 2020
4 Nov 2020 First Stage Defeated Eoin Ó Broin
- Freezes rents for existing tenancies at their rate on the bill's enactment date for three years.
- Sets new tenancy rents using Residential Tenancies Board index for equivalent local properties, not market rates.
- Subjects the three-year rent freeze to annual review to assess whether to continue or modify.
Ministerial Power (Repeal) (Ban Co-Living and Build to Rent) Bill 2020
3 Nov 2020 First Stage Defeated Eoin Ó Broin
- Deletes section 28(1C) from the Planning and Development Act 2000, which allowed ministers to issue planning guidelines to local authorities.
- Repeals the Build to Rent and Shared Accommodation sections of the March 2018 Sustainable Urban Housing apartment design guidelines.
- Removes ministerial power to mandate co-living and build-to-rent housing policies through planning directives to planning authorities.
Residential Tenancies and Valuation Bill 2020
17 Aug 2020 Enacted
- Extends notice periods for rent arrears evictions to 90 days during emergency period (10 Jan 2021), requiring landlords to give tenants 28 days to pay arrears after written notice to tenant and Residential Tenancies Board.
- Freezes residential rent increases during emergency period; tenants experiencing Covid-19 job loss or receiving pandemic payments can declare eligibility for enhanced protections by notifying Residential Tenancies Board.
- Requires landlords to send eviction notices for unpaid rent simultaneously to tenant and Residential Tenancies Board; Board must offer tenants Money Advice and Budgeting Service assistance when notified of arrears.
National Housing Co-operative Bill 2017
20 Apr 2020 First Stage Lapsed Victor Boyhan
- Establishes National Housing Co-operative to purchase distressed mortgages from lenders, allowing homeowners to transition from mortgage to 'rent and mortgage' arrangements.
- Finances €5 billion acquisition through 20-year secured property bonds backed by European Investment Fund guarantee; purchase price neutral to selling lenders.
- Provides homeowners with options including extended mortgages, interest-only payments, rent supplements, or local authority management to prevent repossession and homelessness.
Property Services (Advertisement of Unfit Lettings) (Amendment) Bill 2019
20 Apr 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Fintan Warfield
- Amends 2011 Property Services law to allow removal of ads for rental properties that don't meet fitness standards.
- Gives authorities power to take down advertisements of unfit lettings; details of enforcement mechanism not specified in title.
- Bill lapsed during parliamentary process; not enacted into law.
National Asset Management Agency (Amendment) Bill 2017
20 Apr 2020 First Stage Lapsed Paul Gavan
- Bill allows NAMA and Ireland Strategic Investment Fund to fund social and affordable housing to stabilize the housing system.
- Amends the 2009 NAMA Act and 2014 Treasury Management Act to give these agencies new housing investment powers.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; did not progress to debate or voting in the Oireachtas.
Health and Safety (Carbon Monoxide) Bill 2017
20 Apr 2020 First Stage Lapsed Diarmuid Wilson
- Requires all landlords—including local authorities and housing bodies—to arrange annual servicing of heat-producing carbon monoxide appliances in rental properties and keep records.
- Landlords must provide tenants with certification of service within 7 working days on request; tenants must allow access for work and may submit private service records instead.
- Breaches incur fines up to €5,000 or 6 months imprisonment; additional €250 daily fines for continuing contraventions. Minister sets enforcement rules within 60 days of passage.
Housing (Housing Assistance Payment Waiting Times) (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Bill 2019
20 Apr 2020 First Stage Lapsed Catherine Ardagh
- Introduces 3-week statutory deadline for local authorities to process Housing Assistance Payment applications; currently no timeframe exists.
- Halves social housing assessment processing time by setting new 3-week deadline under Housing Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2009.
- Revokes existing 12-week processing timeframe regulation to replace with faster assessment times; no additional exchequer costs anticipated.
Short-term Lettings Bill 2018
20 Apr 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Kevin Humphreys
- Classifies short-term dwelling rentals as commercial use, changing their legal status and planning implications.
- Requires property service providers handling short-term lettings to register under Property Services Regulation Act 2011.
- Mandates short-term letting service providers give planning authorities information on request about their operations.
Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Bill 2020
2 Apr 2020 Enacted
- Suspends residential tenancy terminations and rent increases for initial 3-month period, extendable by government order.
- Enables simplified re-registration of retired health professionals (doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, etc.) to address Covid-19 workforce needs.
- Introduces temporary wage subsidy scheme operated by Revenue Commissioners, with government contributing to eligible employers' wage costs for employees.
Housing (Homeless Prevention) Bill 2014
19 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Maureen O'Sullivan
- Amends Housing Act 1988 section 2 to redefine 'homelessness' to include 'being at risk of becoming homeless', shifting focus toward prevention.
- Amends Housing Act 1988 section 10 to enable local authorities to fund approved bodies delivering housing advice, advocacy, and tenancy support services.
- Removes legislative restrictions preventing cross-sectoral cooperation between local authorities, agencies, and frontline organisations on homelessness prevention.
Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Bill 2015
19 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Mattie McGrath
- Protects certain mortgages from repeals made by the 2009 Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act, ensuring specific statutory rules still apply to them.
- Prevents the 2013 Act from removing homeowners' right to a full court hearing before eviction from their main residence.
- Allows courts to adjourn legal proceedings in certain cases and addresses related procedural matters.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (First-Time Buyers) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Darragh O'Brien
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to let local authorities set aside up to 30% of residential zoned land exclusively for first-time home buyers.
- Requires local authorities to separately assess build-to-rent housing needs in their housing strategies, distinct from other residential requirements.
- Allows local authorities to exempt build-to-rent developments from standard requirements if they meet housing strategy rental targets.
Latent Defects Redress Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Dessie Ellis
- Establishes independent Latent Defects Redress Board to provide information, mediation, and adjudication for homeowners affected by building regulation non-compliance, including fire safety and structural defects.
- Board will conduct risk assessments for latent defects and review existing sanctions against developers/builders for breaching building and fire safety standards, making recommendations to Minister.
- Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government appoints establishment day and determines Board's powers.
Housing (Homeless Housing Assistance Payment) (Amendment) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Frank O'Rourke
- Amends Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014 to require local authorities to start Homeless Housing Assistance Payment support immediately when a tenant receives notice of tenancy termination.
- Enables eligible households to seek accommodation earlier with state support, aiming to prevent homelessness before eviction occurs.
- Creates new statutory obligation on local authorities with no anticipated additional exchequer costs.
Planning and Development (Ministerial Power Repeal) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Deletes section 28(1C) from the Planning and Development Act 2000, removing ministerial power to issue certain planning guidelines.
- Repeals the March 2018 Apartment Design Standards guidelines and December 2018 Building Heights guidelines issued under that power.
- Shifts planning guideline authority away from the Minister to planning authorities themselves.
Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Anne Rabbitte
- Exempts buildings and land used exclusively by registered early years and school-aged childcare providers from commercial rates.
- Aligns childcare providers with other non-commercial property types like educational and public institutions in the rates system.
- Reduces childcare operating costs to lower fees for families and increase accessibility of childcare services.
Curragh of Kildare (Amendment) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Fiona O'Loughlin
- Makes it a criminal offence to occupy part of the Curragh continuously for three or more days without a Minister licence.
- Grants the Minister of Defence power to issue licences for continuous occupation of specified Curragh areas for defined periods.
- Allows the Minister to make regulations to implement the Act; no additional exchequer costs anticipated.
Health (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Anne Rabbitte
- Expands HIQA's powers to enforce national standards in foster care, children's residential centres, detention schools, and Tusla services—currently HIQA can only audit, not enforce.
- Amends Health Act 2007 to include these child-care services in the definition of 'designated centre,' bringing them within HIQA's enforcement remit.
- Gives Minister for Health authority to make regulations to implement enforcement powers, subject to parliamentary approval.
Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (Right to Housing) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Thomas P. Broughan
- Proposes constitutional amendment to add right to adequate housing into Article 45 Directive Principles, enforceable through State laws and policies.
- Requires State to prioritize housing resources and give particular regard to children in implementing this right.
- Bill aims to enable referendum allowing Irish electorate to decide whether to insert this housing right into the Constitution.
Social Housing (Real Social Housing) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Housing Acts 1966-2009 to legally define 'real social housing' as dwellings owned by local authorities or approved housing bodies, distinct from temporary support schemes.
- Defines 'social housing support' as temporary assistance including Housing Assistance Payment, long-term leases, and Rental Accommodation Scheme tenancies for households awaiting permanent housing.
- Grants local authorities powers to purchase, build, lease, convert, or refurbish dwellings and permits mixed-income housing arrangements when providing social housing.
Residential Tenancies (Complaints of Anti-Social Behaviour and Neglect of Dwelling Exteriors) (Amendment) Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Darragh O'Brien
- Removes restriction on third-party complaints to RTB: any person can now complain about tenant anti-social behaviour or breaches, not just directly impacted parties.
- Adds new tenant obligation: exteriors of dwelling and curtilage must be kept in reasonable condition, enforced through landlord duty under RTA 2004.
- Expands RTB powers to terminate tenancies based on complaints about breaches of tenant obligations under amended section 15.
Retention of Records Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed
- Records from three child abuse redress bodies transfer to National Archives; sealed and inaccessible for minimum 75 years from transfer date.
- After 75-year sealing period, Minister may make regulations permitting access, with regard for survivors' well-being; requires parliamentary approval.
- Amends three Acts to enable retention instead of disposal; exempts transferred records from Freedom of Information Act 2014.
Healthy Homes Bill 2019
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eamon Ryan
- Amends Housing Act 1992 to require thermal efficiency standards for rented homes based on Building Energy Ratings system, with regulations to be updated by end of 2019.
- Requires landlords to test rented accommodation for radon and carry out remediation where dangerous concentrations exist, with regulations updated by end of 2019.
- Allows progressive application of standards to worst-performing properties first and permits architectural heritage derogations.
Housing (Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Willie O'Dea
- Makes housing adaptation grants more accessible for people with disabilities who qualify for them.
- Addresses application processes and eligibility procedures for disability-related home modifications.
- Bill lapsed during Second Stage; did not become law.
Multi-Unit Developments (Amendment) (Sinking Fund) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Darragh O'Brien
- Transfers multi-unit development oversight responsibilities to the Housing, Planning and Local Government Minister.
- Requires a sinking fund to be established in year one when a development transfers ownership.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; no further legislative progress recorded.
Residential Tenancies (Prohibition on Viewing Fees) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Jan O'Sullivan
- Landlords banned from charging prospective tenants fees to view rental properties.
- Applies to residential tenancies; related enforcement and penalties not specified in long title.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; never enacted into law.
Affordable Housing and Fair Mortgage Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed John McGuinness
- Creates a national affordable housing exchange platform where not-for-profit housing providers get first refusal to buy mortgaged homes from struggling owners.
- Expands mortgage-to-rent schemes beyond local authorities, allowing voluntary and not-for-profit groups to help borrowers in arrears without public funding.
- Reconfigures Abhaile as a dedicated mortgage resolution agency aligned with EU law and human rights protections during housing emergencies.
Emergency Homeless Accommodation and Direct Provision Independent Inspection Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Health Act 2007 to give HIQA power to inspect all emergency homeless accommodation funded by the Department of Housing, Planning and Community and Local Government.
- Grants HIQA power to inspect direct provision centres funded by the Reception and Integration Agency of the Department of Justice and Equality.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; was not enacted into law.
Homeless Prevention Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Amends Housing Act 1988 to legally define people at risk of homelessness for first time.
- Gives Minister and local authorities power to provide support services preventing homelessness.
- Bill did not progress beyond first stage and expired without becoming law.
Residential Tenancies (Rent Pressure Zones and Student Accommodation) (Amendment) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Darragh O'Brien
- Extends rent pressure zone rules to student accommodation, which were previously excluded from rent controls in certain areas.
- Amends the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to include student housing in zones where landlord rent increases are already limited.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; never progressed through parliament, so these changes were not enacted into law.
Residential Tenancies (Residential Tenancies Board) (Amendment) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Gives the Residential Tenancies Board new powers to investigate tenant and landlord disputes independently.
- Amends the 2004 Residential Tenancies Act to strengthen the Board's enforcement capabilities.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; specific investigative powers and related measures not enacted into law.
Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2018
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Michael Moynihan
- Licensed premises now pay property rates only on areas actually used to sell alcohol, not function rooms or community halls.
- Amends the Valuation Act 2001 to change how licensed premises are assessed for property tax purposes.
- Bill did not progress beyond First Stage and lapsed without becoming law.
Living Cities Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eamon Ryan
- Increases the levy (tax) on derelict sites and makes local authority derelict site registers publicly available online.
- Protects homeowners in residential care from derelict site levies and expands vacant site levy to include low-equity properties.
- Lowers the vacant site threshold from 0.05 hectares and requires public disclosure of vacant site registration documents online.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (Short Term Lettings) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to regulate short-term lettings as a planning matter, likely requiring permissions for such uses.
- Amends Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to extend tenant protections or landlord obligations to short-term rental arrangements.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; did not progress to debate or enactment. Specific provisions unknown from title alone.
Property Services Regulatory Authority (Amendment) (Bidding Transparency) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Amends Property Services Regulatory Authority Act to make land sale bidding processes more transparent and faster when property isn't sold by auction.
- Requires clearer disclosure of bid information to buyers and sellers during non-auction land sales, reducing hidden bidding practices.
- Bill lapsed without progressing beyond First Stage; specific enforcement mechanisms and timeline requirements not detailed in available information.
Community Energy (Co-ownership) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eamon Ryan
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to require solar and wind energy developers above set thresholds to offer local communities approximately 30% of project equity as investment shares.
- Establishes community co-operative model to manage and distribute shares, with protections against early sale and provisions for low-income residents via credit union loan schemes.
- Requires planning conditions for eligible renewable energy developments, with unsold equity shares held in trust by local authority; guidelines to specify eligible geographic areas and investment limits.
Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) (Amendment) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Anne Rabbitte
- Amends Planning and Development Act 2000 to include data centres and IT infrastructure in Strategic Development planning procedures.
- Allows these facilities to bypass standard planning processes and use faster strategic infrastructure route instead.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; no further legislative action taken as of available record.
Planning and Development (Rapid Broadband) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed James Lawless
- Speeds up broadband infrastructure installation by allowing planning permission to require ducting (underground conduits) in new building developments for future telecom cables.
- Lets state agencies share their infrastructure with telecom and broadband providers to reduce duplication and costs of installing new networks nationally.
- Creates a public register of all telecoms infrastructure and its owners to help plan future broadband and telecom services more efficiently.
Rent Transparency Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Noel Rock
- Landlords must provide renters with key information and agree to share it with the Residential Tenancies Board.
- Amends 2004 Residential Tenancies Act to make publishing rental property details a legal requirement.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; never became law. Aimed to increase transparency in rental market.
Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Amends Valuation Act 2001 to cap how much commercial rates can change per assessment period.
- Spreads rate variation increases over multiple years rather than applying full change immediately.
- Bill lapsed without passing; provides certainty to business ratepayers on property tax liability.
Urban Regeneration and Housing (Amendment) Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Catherine Murphy
- Removes minimum 0.05 hectare threshold so vacant site levy applies to smaller sites that could accommodate housing under development standards.
- Increases vacant site levy by 1% annually for each full year site remains vacant, replacing fixed 3% rate.
- Eliminates exemptions and reduced levy rates for sites with outstanding loans; requires zoning and area details published on Vacant Site Register.
Keeping People in their Homes Bill 2017
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Kevin Boxer Moran
- Amends Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 to require courts consider proportionality when deciding home repossession cases involving mortgagors' principal residences.
- Courts must assess factors including impact on borrower and dependents, lender's circumstances, state support availability, and alternative accommodation costs before granting possession.
- Applies to new cases and pending cases where no repossession order yet granted, plus cases where suspension or variation of existing orders is sought.
Residential Institutions Statutory Fund (Amendment) Bill 2016
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Clare Daly
- Expands approved services available to former residents of residential institutions under the 2012 Fund Act.
- Improves application processing efficiency for former residents seeking support or compensation.
- Removes requirement to establish a special bank account in the Minister for Health's name.
Planning and Development (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2016
13 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Eoin Ó Broin
- Removes section 28(1C) from the Planning and Development Act 2000, which previously allowed certain ministerial directives on planning decisions.
- Practical effect: Reduces ministerial power to intervene in local planning matters through binding directions to planning authorities.
- Bill lapsed at First Stage; did not progress to legislative debate or votes.
Nursing Home Support Scheme (Amendment) Bill 2016
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Willie O'Dea
- Lets eligible nursing home residents receive home care instead if suitable services exist and cost the State less.
- Applies when long-term residential care is offered but home-based alternatives are available and cheaper.
- Bill did not progress beyond Second Stage debate; status is lapsed.
Housing (Sale of Local Authority Housing) Bill 2016
13 Feb 2020 Second Stage Lapsed Barry Cowen
- Allows housing authorities to sell homes to tenants who rented them under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000.
- Part V requires developers to provide affordable housing; this bill lets authorities sell those homes to current tenants.
- Bill lapsed at Second Stage; not enacted into law.
Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Bill 2012
6 Feb 2020 First Stage Lapsed Willie O'Dea
- Each housing authority must maintain and publish a register of rental properties under agreement, showing address, owner name, and total amount paid to that owner in the previous year.
- The Minister must compile an alphabetical list of all landlords with rental agreements across all authorities, showing total payments received per landlord, and publish it.
- Aims to increase transparency in state spending on rental accommodation and align landlord payment disclosure with rules applied to other service providers like legal aid lawyers.