Over 230 new social houses have been officially opened across three residential developments in Co Meath.
The developments, which cost a total of around €81.3 million to build, are located in Farganstown outside Navan, Aylesbury in Clonee and Millrace in Ashbourne.
The development at Farganstown outside Navan, which cost over €25.8 million, consists of 84 new homes on a 1.7 hectare site.
The Aylesbury development in Clonee cost over €28 million and consists of 73 new apartments in two apartment blocks close to the village.
Meanwhile, at a cost of around €27.5 million, the development in Millrace in Ashbourne is made up of 74 new homes on a 2.8 hectare site.
Minister for Housing James Browne visited each of the three developments today to mark the official opening of the houses.
Speaking afterwards, Minister Browne commended Meath County Council for exceeding their five-year social housing delivery target and for their "forward-thinking approach" in acquiring land for future social housing projects.
The minister said: "Beyond the numbers and delivery figures, it's crucial to remember the real impact: a family or individual whose life will be greatly enhanced by having a long-term, secure and affordable home in a thriving community. These 231 new homes aren’t just roofs over heads, they offer peace of mind and long-term security.
Meanwhile, the Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Sharon Tolan said: "Late last year, when we launched Meath County Council’s Corporate Plan, I emphasised the council’s unwavering commitment to excellence in every priority, strategy and vision we set out. Providing high-quality homes to people was a key priority in that plan.
"I am thrilled to welcome the completion of 231 beautiful new homes in three rapidly growing areas within our county, especially considering the current national housing challenges."
Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said he was proud that the local authority continued to exceed its delivery targets despite being in the middle of a national housing crisis.
"These developments are yet another example of Meath County Council and our partners in the Department of Housing recognising our communities’ diverse needs and delivering high-quality housing solutions to meet them.
"At Meath County Council, we remain as focused as ever in making major strides to address the housing challenges for the people of Meath," Mr Kehoe added.
It comes as the latest homelessness figures, which were published today, show that 15,580 people were accessing emergency accommodation in April, an increase of 162 compared to the previous month.
