Nearly 2,000 homes lying vacant across Carlow and Kilkenny

Natasha Newsome Drennan TD says the figures make a mockery out of the Government’s Vacant Home Tax

Published 5th Apr 2026, 10:00 BST Natasha Newsome Drennan TD says the figures make a mockery out of the Government’s Vacant Home Tax Sign up to our Kilkenny Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Kilkenny Live within your account.

Sinn Féin TD for Carlow/ Kilkenny , Natasha Newsome Drennan has called for a reform of the Vacant Homes Tax as Central Statistics Office (CSO) data for Q4 2024 indicated that 1,895 homes were vacant in the counties, with over 70,000 across the state.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said: “Just 51 homes were self-assessed as liable for the Vacant Homes Tax in 2025 across Carlow and Kilkenny, despite the CSO identifying 1895 homes that are potentially liable.”

SEE ALSO: Kilkenny baby whose life began with 'immense uncertainty' is a 'Little Hero' - Kilkenny Live

“Statewide, the CSO have identified over 70,000 vacant homes, but only 2,361 were self-assessed as liable for the Vacant Homes Tax in 2025. “While some may not be eligible, we know that there are speculators and landhoarders laughing all the way to the bank because of the weak actions of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.”

“I am contacted every single day by people who see empty homes in their communities. They see them fall into disrepair and often they contact me because they or someone they love do not have access to secure and affordable accommodation,” she added.

Related topics: Natasha Newsome Drennan Housing Kilkenny Sign up to our Kilkenny Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Kilkenny Live within your account.