Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Dáil Éireann in Dublin to voice their anger over Ireland’s escalating housing crisis, demanding urgent action from the government. The demonstration brought together a broad coalition of housing activists, tenants’ rights groups, trade unions, students, and affected families, all of whom say the crisis has reached a breaking point. Placards, chants, and speeches highlighted the depth of public frustration with soaring rents, a lack of affordable housing, long waiting lists for social housing, and an increase in homelessness.
The protest comes amid mounting evidence that Ireland’s housing system is under immense strain. According to recent reports, more than 14,000 people are currently homeless, including over 4,000 children. Many working individuals and families are unable to secure long-term rental accommodation due to limited supply and unaffordable prices. In cities like Dublin, average rents have reached record highs, placing further pressure on those on lower or middle incomes. For young people and students, securing housing has become nearly impossible without financial assistance, leading to increasing numbers forced to live in unsuitable or overcrowded conditions.
Organisers of the demonstration accused successive governments of failing to address the root causes of the crisis. They pointed to the state’s reliance on private developers, insufficient investment in public housing, and the commodification of property as key contributors to the worsening situation. Protesters demanded a nationwide rent freeze, increased construction of social and affordable homes, and stronger protections for renters. Speakers at the event also criticised the growing presence of investment funds in the Irish property market, which they claim is driving up prices and reducing the availability of homes for ordinary citizens.
Political pressure on the government continues to mount, with opposition parties calling for emergency measures to tackle the crisis. Sinn Féin, the Social Democrats, and other opposition figures have echoed protesters’ concerns, accusing the coalition government of being out of touch with the realities faced by ordinary people. While the government has introduced several schemes aimed at supporting first-time buyers and boosting housing supply, critics argue these measures have had limited impact and are not keeping pace with demand.
The demonstration outside the Dáil is the latest in a series of protests, and organisers have vowed to continue mobilising until significant policy changes are made. For many, the message is clear: housing is a human right, and the status quo is no longer acceptable.
