Government failure: 68% of young adults still live with parents

Senator Annie Hoey image
19 March 2024
  • 68% of 18-34 year olds live at home
  • Labour calls for renewed sense of urgency on housing crisis

Labour’s Senator Annie Hoey has highlighted the pressing issue of youth housing crisis as revealed by the 2022 Census, which indicates that a staggering 68% of 18-34 year olds are still living with their parents, totaling 522,486 young adults across the nation.

Senator Hoey said

“It is alarming to see such a high percentage of young adults unable to access independent housing. This is not merely a statistic; it’s a reflection of a systemic failure in our housing policies and an urgent call for action.

“Many of these young people are not living with their parents out of choice. They are trapped due to exorbitant rents, soaring living costs, and unattainable house prices. The housing crisis is a direct consequence of the government’s neglect and failure to prioritise the well-being of its citizens, especially the younger generation.

“Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have continuously failed to address the root causes of the housing crisis. Instead of meaningful solutions, they offer spin and obfuscation, leading many to believe that housing, like health, has become an insurmountable issue. However, this is far from the truth. What’s lacking is the political will to enact concrete measures to build homes, particularly focusing on social and affordable housing.

“We urge the government to prioritise the welfare and security of its citizens over ideological agendas. It’s time for decisive action to tackle the housing crisis at its core. We must work towards a future where everyone has access to affordable housing and the security of a place to call home.”

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