Natasha Newsome Drennan Calls for Stronger Penalties to Force Carlow and Kilkenny Vacant Homes Back To The Market

Sinn Féin TD Natasha Newsome Drennan is calling for a major reform of the Vacant Homes Tax, saying it is failing to tackle the housing crisis.

New CSO figures show there are nearly 1,900 vacant homes across Carlow and Kilkenny, yet just 51 have been declared liable for the tax.

Nationwide, over 70,000 homes sit empty, with only a tiny fraction subject to the charge.

Deputy Newsome Drennan says stronger penalties are needed, warning that too many properties are being left idle while local families struggle to find a roof over their heads.