Issue: 74 | October 2024

Welcome to this special Ireland-focused edition of CT Brief. There is a lot happening across the island of Ireland – you only need to look inside!

In the Republic of Ireland, a general election is due in the coming months, with recent opinion polls showing shifts back and forth in political opinion. The report of the Housing Commission has been published and we have an article from John O Connor, the Commission Chair – who, we are delighted to say, is carrying out some consultancy projects with us in Ireland.

In Northern Ireland, the political landscape has stabilised somewhat and Stormont has been sitting again. Disappointingly though, the housing budget is far less than necessary, albeit housing is a priority in the new programme for government. This is thanks to lobbying from Chartered Institute of Housing, Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations and Homeless Connect, which all feature in this edition.

We also hear from Oaklee Housing about how it ‘separated’ to become a stand-alone housing association and from Chris Ellison, who looks as the differences between the housing sectors in the UK and Ireland.

The Local Government Management Agency tells us how councils across Ireland are enhancing agility in construction delivery methods. Also included are the findings from new Cost Rental research carried out by Clúid, Fold Housing makes the compelling case for the need for more specialist older persons’ housing, while St John Of God Housing Association articulates the challenges for people with disabilities in getting properly funded housing.

In addition, you will find articles here on other topics, including reflections on the Grenfell Inquiry, on Build to Rent, and in recruitment, how to manage that crucial period when a CEO leaves.

Enjoy the read and please do get in touch with us to discuss any of these issues further.