The newly formed Housing Commission has met for the first time, chaired by former Housing Agency CEO John O'Connor.

The Commission will serve to examine long-term housing policy, beyond 2030, and report to the government on how to build on policy changes committed to under Housing for All.

Chair John O'Connor was joined by Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien at the first meeting.

"The government recognises the need for a long-term approach to housing policy, an enduring approach that transcends changes of government," Minister O'Brien said. "We need to build consensus on how we address our housing issues. That is why, as promised under Housing for All and the Programme for Government, we've established a Housing Commission, which will now begin to examine long-term housing policy issues.

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"The Commission will look at important issues like housing tenure, cost, quality and supply, the cost of private rental accommodation and social housing. I look forward to receiving its work and ensuring it informs long-term housing policy. I want to thank the members for agreeing to be members and want to wish the commission well with its work."

As part of its duties, the Commission will study and report on maintaining a sustainable housing supply; cost and quality of housing; affordability of private rental accommodation; capacity of construction sector to meet housing supply demands; need for regulation of social housing; and several other issues surrounding Ireland's housing sector.

The Commission will submit reports on these areas to the Minister by the end of July 2023.

John O'Connor, Chair of the Commission, added: "There is great commitment and focus among members and the Commission is ready to embark on its important programme of work.

"As Chair, I intend to work with all other Commission members to ensure we deliver against its Terms of Reference and provide solutions to how we create a sustainable housing system, delivering the quality homes that are needed, for the long-term."