Young people putting lives on hold due to housing crisis
- Youngest Taoiseach must prioritise young people
Labour’s Senator Annie Hoey underscores the urgency of addressing the pressing concerns for young people in Ireland, as revealed by the latest research from the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) and Ipsos.
Senator Hoey said,
“The findings from the NYCI report are a stark reminder of the challenges facing young people in Ireland today. It is unacceptable that nearly half of our youth are dissatisfied with their housing situation.
“More than one-in-five young people have resorted to skipping meals due to financial constraints, while half of 18 to 29-year-olds struggle with low mental well-being. This is a crisis that demands immediate action.
“Unaffordable rents and skyrocketing house prices are forcing young people to delay major life milestones, such as living independently or starting a family. This generational crisis cannot be ignored any longer.
“Having a place to call home is a fundamental human right. Denying this right to young people undermines their sense of stability and independence, hindering their ability to live fully empowered lives.
“A structural revolution in housing policy. Government representatives must stop their dismissive attitudes and embrace constructive proposals to increase housing supply. We need a change of approach.
“We in Labour have been calling for more investment in young people. We would restore full adult Jobseekers rates for young people, provide the €500 cost of education grant to all back to education allowance recipients, and invest in youth work services. Calls which have fallen on deaf ears in Government.
“It is time for the Government to heed the report of the NYCI. The youngest ever Taoiseach must mark a change of course and prioritise young people. We cannot afford to wait any longer while this crisis deepens. Action is needed now.”