Martin officially opens newest phase of Navan housing scheme

Gort Fionnbarra scheme will contain 109 housing units as Micheal Martin pledges 90,000 new social homes over the coming ten-years

Housing is the most “urgent social issue facing our country today”, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin said on Monday as he visited the new Gort Fionnbarra housing development off the Commons Road in Navan where 30 new social houses were allocated recently.

A further 19 houses in the same development will be allocated by the housing body, Tuath, in the next few weeks.

Two years ago, 60 houses in the estate were allocated to families on the housing waiting list.

The Taoiseach said the Government is determined to deal with the housing crisis and the Housing for All plan commits to delivering 90,000 new social homes over the coming ten-year period through a variety of initiatives.

He said the Gort Fionnbarra development, when complete, will provide 109 homes, enabling a whole new community of families and individuals to thrive, enjoy their lives and contribute to local society here in Navan.

“No doubt they will be a very welcome addition for the social housing supply in Meath.

“This project has been delivered by Tuath Housing – working in partnership with Meath County Council and KJA Developments. It was made possible using funding provided by the Government as well as with private finance.

“I am delighted to say that this is just one of a number of fantastic developments that Tuath Housing are undertaking in partnership with local authorities around the country to provide new social homes.”

He said housing developments like Gort Fionnbarra are “not just about bricks and mortar, they are about providing good quality homes and sustainable communities, allowing people to live independently, confidently and safely in secure surroundings.

“Over the coming years, through Housing for All, we will roll out the largest house building programme ever in the history of the State, getting the country back to building at scale.

“Approved Housing Bodies are important partners in this process and have an impressive track record when it comes to delivering and maintaining homes. They are key to the provision of approximately a third of our supply of social housing.

“Tuath Housing is an excellent example. I am pleased to note that as of today, Tuath Housing have delivered more than 8,000 homes nationwide, improving the lives of families across the country by their impressive work.

“Meath Co Council’s collaboration with Tuath Housing can be seen here today in a very real way as we look around this development at Gort Fionnbarra in Gainsfield and what it means for those living here and those looking forward to moving in over the coming months.”

Also in attendance at the opening was Meath Co Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Drew, Navan Mayor Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons, Minister Damien English, Senator Shane Cassells, Deputy Johnny Guirke and cllrs Mike Bray and Yemi Adenuga.

Meath Co Council Chief Executive Jackie Maguire said the Council was delighted to support the work of Tuath and wished the new residents every happiness in their new homes.