Major Landlord’s €31.75m Purchase Of 77 Naas Apartments Draws Political Criticism

Wednesday, 25 February 2026 09:55

By Martin Osborne

The criticism comes as the latest Daft.ie figures show how rents are now one third more expensive than before covid, and are 80 per cent higher than they were 10 years ago.

A major apartment purchase in Naas has prompted political criticism of Government housing policy.

Social Democrats housing spokesperson Rory Hearne says the move by Ires Reit to acquire 77 apartments in the town for €31.75 million highlights what he claims is the prioritisation of "corporate landlords over those struggling to rent or desperate to buy a home".

Deputy Hearne argued that the transaction demonstrates that current policy settings continue to allow investor funds to "bulk-buy housing stock".

He also said rental law changes due to take effect on March 1st will favour "corporate landlords".

The criticism comes as the latest Daft.ie figures show how rents are now one third more expensive than before covid, and are 80 per cent higher than they were 10 years ago.

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