Minister James Browne Discusses Housing Investment, Infrastructure and Challenges Facing Wexford

Housing Minister and Wexford TD James Browne has defended the Government's record housing investment under Budget 2027 but declined to commit to a specific number of social homes to be delivered next year.

Speaking to Alan Corcoran on Morning Mix Minister Browne outlined the Government's almost €12 billion housing package, aimed at increasing supply, improving affordability and strengthening protections for renters.

However, when pressed to provide a firm figure for social housing completions in 2027, the minister said he did not believe in targets.

He argued that setting individual targets can create unnecessary complexity, insisting his priority is simplifying the system and allowing local authorities and developers to accelerate construction.

The interview also highlighted ongoing concerns about water infrastructure in County Wexford.

Asked how much of the €2.35 billion allocation for Uisce Éireann would benefit the county, Minister Browne acknowledged that both Camolin and Ferns require additional support.

He said discussions are ongoing with Uisce Éireann, pointing to previous infrastructure improvements in Arthurstown, Enniscorthy, Wexford and Gorey.

However, no specific allocation for the two communities was confirmed.

Minister Browne also took a strong stance on derelict properties, describing dereliction as a form of anti-social behaviour.

He said owners should be compelled to either bring their properties back into use or sell them to somebody who will.

The minister confirmed that the Government is working on further measures to tackle dereliction, while encouraging prospective homeowners to avail of existing refurbishment grants.

He also highlighted substantial road infrastructure investment in Wexford Town, which he said could unlock more than 1,000 homes, alongside projects in Enniscorthy and Gorey.

Among the Budget measures outlined were an increase in the Help to Buy scheme to €35,000 and higher Rent Tax Credits of €1,150 for individuals and €2,300 for couples.

Minister Browne said additional funding for the Residential Tenancies Board would strengthen protections against rogue landlords.

On homelessness, he acknowledged that numbers in emergency accommodation have increased but expressed confidence that greater housing supply and prevention measures would improve the situation.

The interview concluded with an update on mental health services in Wexford.

Minister Browne outlined an additional €1.6 million investment to support a crisis café-type service, a crisis resolution team and specialist nursing supports at Wexford General Hospital.

However, he did not provide a timeline for the long-awaited ten-bed mental health unit when questioned about its progress.

Despite the challenges facing the housing sector, Minister Browne insisted progress is being made, while acknowledging that many families and individuals continue to struggle to secure suitable accommodation.