New Offaly council chief sets out ambitious housing and community agenda for year ahead

Newly elected Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, Cllr Declan Harvey, has outlined an ambitious programme for the year ahead, with housing, rural development, disability supports and opportunities for young people at the centre of his agenda.

Speaking after taking office, Cllr Harvey said one of his main priorities will be working with the council to make housing more achievable and affordable for working people and young families across Offaly.

"We need to do everything we can to help the squeezed middle and those trying to get a start in life," he said. "Too many young people are doing everything right, working hard and paying high rents every month, yet they still struggle to secure a mortgage."

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Cllr Harvey believes that a strong record of paying rent should be recognised by financial institutions when assessing mortgage applications.

"If someone can show they have consistently paid rent over a number of years, that should count for something when they are applying for a mortgage. We need to make it easier for young people to buy their own home and build their future in Offaly."

The Fianna Fáil councillor also reiterated his long-held belief that local authorities should be given a greater role in building houses.

"Since I was first elected in 2009, I have always argued that councils should be allowed to build houses again on a much larger scale," he said.

"When councils build houses, projects get moving quicker. It creates jobs, supports local businesses and uses the knowledge and experience that already exists within our communities. It is a practical way of delivering homes for people who need them."

Cllr Harvey said increased house building would bring wider benefits to towns and villages throughout the county.

"When young families can stay in their own communities, everyone benefits. Our schools remain strong, our sports clubs grow, our community groups thrive and local businesses continue to trade. It helps keep rural Ireland alive and ensures our towns and villages remain vibrant places to live."

Another key priority for the year ahead will be improving access to disability grants.

"Many families are waiting too long for essential adaptations that allow people to live safely and independently in their homes," he said. "We need to secure additional funding and we need to speed up the process. People should not be left waiting when these works can make such a difference to their quality of life."

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While proud of his roots in Tullamore and his lifelong commitment to Fianna Fáil, Cllr Harvey said his focus as Cathaoirleach will be on representing the entire county.

"I want to work with every councillor, every community and every area of Offaly. This role is about doing what is best for the county as a whole. We have great people, great communities and enormous potential. If we work together, we can make real progress over the next twelve months."

Cllr Harvey said he is determined to ensure that every corner of Offaly benefits from investment and opportunity during his term as Cathaoirleach, with a particular focus on housing, rural development, disability supports and creating a county where young people can build their future close to home.