Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) has today raised serious concerns over the Department of Housing's newly unveiled housing plan, Delivering Homes Building Communities 2025-2030, which includes provisions for pets but lacks specific, mandated provisions for wheelchair users in all new developments.

The new plan has drawn sharp criticism for what many see as a significant oversight in inclusive design and a failure to meet the essential needs of a substantial portion of the population. According to the last Census, 22% of the population reported having a long-lasting condition/difficulty or disability.

While IWA welcomes plans that aim to increase housing supply, the apparent omission of guaranteed accessibility features, such as ground-floor access or appropriately modified units, has highlighted a major gap in the Department’s commitment to independent living for all citizens.

“It is astonishing that in the 21st century, the basic human right to accessible housing is still an afterthought, while pet provisions are being written into policy,” said Rosaleen Lally, National Access Programme Manager for Irish Wheelchair Association.

“This is not about pitting pet owners against disabled people; it is about fundamental equality. Every new housing development should have a mandatory percentage of fully accessible units, not just an ‘optional extra’.”

IWA’s National Access Manager, Rosaleen Lally.

While the Design & Build approach highlighted in the plan offers clear efficiencies in housing delivery, it currently presents challenges for the inclusion of wheelchair liveable homes (UD+ homes).

Rather than investing millions each year in retrofitting homes, the department should set a target of building at least 30% of all new homes to UD and UD+ standards. This makes financial sense and demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and equality for all.

The Department’s existing National Housing Strategy for Disabled People 2022–2027 emphasises independent living and aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, critics argue this new plan’s specific lack of concrete, enforceable mandates for wheelchair liveable homes in all general developments contradicts the commitment in this strategy.

 “Accessible housing isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for people with disabilities to live full, independent lives within their communities,” added Rosaleen.

“We call on the Department to immediately review this plan and embed concrete, non-negotiable accessibility standards that ensure no citizen is left behind.”

Irish Wheelchair Association is urging the public to contact their local representatives and demand a revision of the housing plan to ensure inclusive and accessible communities for all residents.