Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin has said that Fianna Fáil is the party of action on housing, insisting that a "new era of home building is under way".
In his leader's speech at the party Ard Fheis in Dublin, Mr Martin also pledged support to struggling households and businesses, and urged Iran to step-back from escalation in the Middle East.
On immigration, he said a shared response was required, which is why Ireland had opted in to the EU Migration Pact.
Housing
Mr Martin told delegates that addressing the housing crisis would take time, but that a "new era of social housing has begun".
He said thousands of new apprentices had been trained.
"The €750 tax credit for renters we have introduced will be increased and expanded," he told the Ard Fheis.
He pledged "much stronger action to return homes to the rental market", and an expansion of dedicated student accommodation.
In a swipe at the opposition, he insisted that "to tackle our housing crisis, you don't need politicians delivering angry speeches - you need a commitment to sustained action".
Cost of living
Mr Martin also told delegates that there will be further investment to reduce the cost of childcare.
He reiterated a pledge from Minister for Finance Michael McGrath, regarding changes to personal taxes in future Budgets.
"Free schoolbooks have been introduced up to the Junior Certificate and will be expanded to all remaining years - permanently lifting a major cost from parents," he said.
For businesses, the Tánaiste committed to changes in employers PRSI in the coming weeks.
"We will also use the National Training Fund to help small businesses become more productive and more competitive," he said.
Middle East
Mr Martin urged Iran to "step back from an escalation which threatens millions more people in the region with conflict".
Work continues in relation to recognition of Palestinian statehood.
However, he added: "let there be no doubt, the brutal savagery of Hamas on 7 October should be condemned by anyone with basic decency. Nothing could ever justify their objectives and actions."
Mr Martin called on Hamas to release all hostages and for an immediate ceasefire.
"The evidence shows that war crimes have been committed and the bombardment of the population must be utterly condemned," he said.
Migration
Mr Martin insisted that a "shared response" was required to reduce immigration numbers.
"That’s why we support the European Asylum and Migration Pact - an agreement to deliver a firm but fair response to this profound challenge," he said.
In relation to the invasion of Ukraine, he said that "Putin is trying to crush the desire of a nation to have a free, peaceful, democratic, and European future".
He added: "our support for the people of Ukraine must be resolute."
Social media
Mr Martin also pledged that a joint initiative will be prepared by the Departments of Health and Education.
He told members that "clear, accessible guidance will be available to every parent on what to do concerning your child and the online world".
The Tánaiste said that every school will be given funding to support the banning of smartphone use during school time.
"And to the social media companies our message is clear. Take concrete steps to get underage children off your apps or we will impose those steps on you," he said.
Earlier, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath has promised a substantial income tax package in the Budget next autumn.
He told the Ard Fheis this was vital for individuals and families, adding that it was also important for the economy to have a competitive personal tax system.
The minister said from September, parents will see a further reduction in childcare costs and next term, they will see the implementation of the expanded free schoolbook scheme.
Mr McGrath said everyone recognises the impact rising costs are having on small businesses throughout the country.
He confirmed the Government is committed to reforming employers' PRSI, which is a direct cost on businesses employing staff.
"We are increasing the energy efficiency grant for businesses and embedding an SME test in all policy decisions across government," he said.
Meanwhile, Minister Darragh O'Brien has told the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis the tide is turning on housing.
He also said the waiver on the development levy and water connection charges will continue and the First Home Scheme will be extended for five years.
Meanwhile, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has announced new supports for tillage farmers.
Speaking to delegates at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, he said that he would provide €100 per hectare to all tillage farmers that put seed in the soil in 2024.
"I want to help tillage farmers have the confidence to plant in 2024", he said.
The support is being provided to ensure crops are grown, despite concerns around the weather.
Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern was surrounded by large crowds as he arrived at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis.
Additional reporting Mícheál Lehane
