Councillor Alfie Devine has put forward a motion.
Housing allocations in the Midlands need to change to better support families.
That is according to a Mullingar/Kinnegad councillor who says the current social housing process often results in people being housed away from their families and communities.
Councillor Alfie Devine recently put forward a motion calling for local families to be prioritised when it comes to social housing allocations, particularly in rural areas.
He says it can be a struggle for young families who are allocated housing away from their own communities, leaving them further away from family members and the support networks they rely on.
Councillor Devine believes the criteria for social housing applications in rural areas are in need of change.
Currently, allocations are largely based on an applicant's position on the waiting list and how long they have been waiting for social housing.
This can often result in families being allocated homes in other areas, while local families who wish to remain in their own community miss out.
During the municipal district meeting, Councillor Devine received a mixed response to his motion, with some councillors questioning the motive behind it.
However, the motion was seconded by Councillor Duncan, who said there was nothing wrong with the proposal, adding that it was simply to prioritise local families who want to live near their supports systems and families.
Funded by The Local Democracy Scheme.
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