Minister of State John Cummins in Waterford to launch three affordable and cost rental schemes
On Monday, November 17th, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning John Cummins TD, launched three affordable and cost rental schemes in his home county of Waterford.
First port of call of the day was The Courtyard in Ballycarnane, Tramore, where the Minister cut the ribbon on the 25-unit affordable housing scheme. Developed by R. McDonald & Sons and made available for sale by Waterford City and County Council, under their Affordable Purchase Scheme, the development consists of a mix of two- and three- bedroom terraced and semi-detached A-Rated homes.
The scheme forms part of a government initiative that enables eligible purchasers to receive up to €75,000 in the form of an equity stake through Waterford City and County Council, reducing the amount a purchaser has to attain through a mortgage, thereby making home ownership a reality for many that would otherwise not be able to purchase on the open market.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said, “This development represents another important step in our ongoing commitment to making home ownership more accessible for the people of Waterford.
“The fact that these homes sold out in record time shows not only the demand for high-quality, affordable housing but also the success of our partnership approach between local authorities, developers, and national government.”
Minister Cummins said, “I am delighted to be here in my home county to officially open The Courtyard which will see 25 families and individuals get the keys to their new home. I have been involved with this particular scheme from the very outset, prior to my appointment as Minister and it’s fantastic to see plans on paper 13 months ago, become new, secure and affordable homes today.
“The Affordable Purchase scheme continues to prove hugely successful, supporting thousands of people in securing a home that meets their needs at a price they can afford.
“As Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, I will continue to collaborate and support local authorities here in Waterford and across the country to deliver schemes, like this one here in Tramore.
“It was really fantastic to meet some residents today who had engaged with my constituency office team in navigating the process and now have keys to their new home.”
Minister Cummins then visited Mountneil, where he was joined by Government Chief Whip and Minister of State for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD. Provided by Tuath, in partnership with Waterford City and County Council, the Mountneil development contains the first-ever cost rental scheme delivered by an Approved Housing Body in Waterford and consists of 98 units, of which 49 are cost rental and 49 are social homes, delivered over two phases in December 2024 and March 2025.
Each home has been built to the highest energy efficiency standards, featuring A-rated construction, high-grade insulation and airtightness, ensuring comfort, sustainability, and affordability for residents.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable housing delivery in Waterford, between 2022 and 2024, 23% of all homes built in the city and county were affordable units highlighting how Waterford City and County Council and its partners have significantly stepped up to create sustainable communities.
Vice-Chair of Tuath’s Voluntary Board of Directors, Angela Murphy said, “Tuath is delighted to be involved in the first-ever delivery of cost rental housing by an Approved Housing Body in Waterford. The Mountneil development is a testament to our commitment to creating sustainable and affordable housing solutions that positively impact the lives of individuals and families.
“We would like to commend our lead partners Waterford City and County Council, and thank the Department of Housing, the Housing Agency, and the Housing Finance Agency for their continued support.”
The final official function of the day was the unveiling of a plaque at Gort na hInse in Ballynaneashagh, Ireland’s first purpose built and delivered local authority cost rental scheme.
Consisting of 18 two-bed and 4 three-bed homes, the cost rental scheme provides long-term secure tenure for middle income earners who may have difficulty securing a mortgage or paying rental rates in private rental accommodation.
Minister Cummins added, “Today’s openings show what can be achieved when Government, local authorities and approved housing bodies and the private sector work together with ambition and focus. I want to commend everyone who has contributed to the delivery of these schemes and I look forward to many more in the time ahead.”
