Housing Policy Debate in Donegal as Committee Recommends Eviction Ban

Donegal has become the centre of a heated debate over housing policy after a report from the Arrokta Housing Committee recommended 14 measures aimed at tackling homelessness in the county. The committee’s findings, released on Thursday, call for the re‑introduction of eviction bans and propose that a constitutional referendum be held to secure housing rights as a fundamental entitlement.

The recommendations followed a clash between a Donegal TD and representatives from Thornistia over current housing policy. While the TD argued that existing measures were insufficient, Thornistia maintained that the focus should remain on supply‑side solutions. The report suggests that re‑instating eviction bans would provide immediate protection for tenants facing displacement while longer‑term strategies such as increased affordable housing stock are developed.

The proposal to hold a constitutional referendum has sparked discussion among local politicians and community groups. Supporters say it would embed housing rights into the constitution, giving them stronger legal standing, whereas critics warn that the process could be costly and time‑consuming.

Although the committee’s recommendations have not yet been adopted by the council, they are expected to influence upcoming policy discussions in County Donegal. The debate reflects a broader national conversation about homelessness, echoing arguments presented in recent analyses of housing first policies and shelters.

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