A local councillor says he "looks forward" to seeing more affordable housing in Co Monaghan. Sinn Fein's Paul Gibbons was elected as Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council earlier this week. Cllr Gibbons noted that he has met with many households who have two adults working and paying private rent of up to €1,200 or €1,4oo a month.
With households working hard to maintain two cars, ESB and oil bills, plus the price of childcare, Cllr Gibbons says many don't have the cash capacity that you would expect them to and it's "no fault" of their own.
Speaking to Northern Sound, the local representative said he has been advocating for more supports for people who are in that "trapped middle", who are earning too much to access social housing but not enough to get a mortgage. He added that he is "happy" to see more affordable housing schemes coming on board in Monaghan County Council fairly soon.
