Kelly Welcomes New EU Housing Committee

Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, has welcomed the establishment of a new special committee on housing, emphasising the need for pragmatic solutions to one of Europe’s most pressing challenges.

“Housing is the largest expense for households across Europe, and the rising costs are placing pressure on young families, urban workers, and the most vulnerable. This new committee is an important step forward, but its success will depend on taking a horizontal  approach and connecting all relevant parts of the European Commission as well as in Member States,” said Kelly.

Housing costs have skyrocketed in recent years, with EU house prices increasing by 47% and rents by 18% since 2010.

“In Ireland, the challenge is acute” Kelly noted. “Rising building costs, a shortage of housing supply, and speculative investments are driving up prices. We need to ensure that housing works as a platform for opportunity, not as a regressive tax on the young and those on lower incomes.”

Kelly highlighted the significance of the new EU Commissioner for Housing, Dan Jørgensen, in addressing the issue. “This is the first time the EU has a Commissioner dedicated to housing, which shows how seriously the issue is being taken. However, given that housing is a national competence, this role will only succeed if it is supported by coordinated action across the Commission, particularly in areas like energy, regional funding, and economic policy.”

Kelly also called for housing policy to align with broader EU priorities, including sustainability and competitiveness: “Energy-efficient housing is essential—not only to lower costs for households but also to achieve the EU’s climate goals. At the same time, high housing costs are hampering economic growth, reducing disposable incomes, and driving talent away from key cities. Addressing these challenges together is crucial.”

The Fine Gael MEP urged the committee to focus on practical measures to support Member States. “Housing policy remains primarily a national responsibility, but the EU can play a supportive role by unlocking investment, sharing best practices, and adapting regulations. For example, revising State aid rules to broaden the definition of social housing could encourage greater investment in affordable homes.”

ENDS

Note to the Editor: Final vote results on the new committee’s establishment were as follows: 480 MEPs voted in favour, 148 against, while 20 abstained.