23/06/2023
Mail to: minister@housing.gov.ie; Darragh.obrien@oireachtas.ie; ministerofstate@housing.gov.ie; kieran.odonnell@oireachtas.ie
Dear Minister Kieran O’Donnell and Minister Darragh O’Brien,
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the local needs only planning rule in County Meath. I firmly believe that this rule is fundamentally flawed and discriminatory, particularly in the midst of an ongoing housing crisis that demands urgent attention and comprehensive solutions.
The housing crisis in Ireland has reached alarming proportions, leaving many families and individuals struggling to find affordable and suitable accommodation. As a concerned citizen, I firmly believe that it is our collective responsibility to address this crisis effectively, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and secure housing. However, the local needs only planning rule in County Meath appears to exacerbate the problem rather than provide a viable solution.
I would like to draw your attention to Article 41 of the Irish Constitution, which recognises and safeguards the family as the natural primary and fundamental unit group of society. It upholds the family as a moral institution possessing inalienable and imprescriptible rights, antecedent and superior to all positive law. While this article primarily focuses on the importance of the family unit, it is important to interpret it in a manner that ensures the well-being and rights of all individuals seeking housing.
By strictly restricting housing opportunities to locals only, we risk disregarding the constitutional principles of equality and fairness. It is my contention that an interpretation of Article 41 should also include the recognition of the right to reasonable and adequate housing for all individuals, irrespective of their local ties. This broader interpretation would align with the fundamental rights enshrined in the Irish Constitution and contribute to a more equitable solution to the housing crisis.
While I appreciate the need to prioritise local communities and their specific needs, it is essential to strike a balance that ensures fairness and inclusivity. By adopting a more open and inclusive approach to planning regulations, we can encourage a diverse range of individuals to contribute to the growth and development of County Meath, thus enriching the local community as a whole.
I strongly urge you, as Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, Minister O’Donnell, and Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, Minister O’Brien, to reconsider the local needs only planning rule in County Meath. It is crucial that we explore alternative measures that take into account the housing crisis while upholding the principles of equality and fairness enshrined in Article 41 of the Irish Constitution.
I respectfully request that you initiate a review of the current planning regulations and engage in meaningful consultations with relevant stakeholders, including local residents, housing advocacy groups, and experts in the field. By adopting a collaborative and inclusive approach, we can develop a more effective and equitable solution to address the pressing housing needs in County Meath.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I believe that by working together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of many individuals and families affected by the housing crisis. I kindly request that you keep me informed of any developments or actions taken in response to my concerns.
Yours sincerely,
Ian Croft