Shifting sands of housing policy make it hard to build solid future

With demand continuing to outstrip supply, the state must smooth the path for development rather that creating yet more hurdles

Cairn’s Mariavilla in Maynooth, a new development of family houses where Hooke & MacDonald reported strong sales to first-time buyers since the scheme launched in August. In spite of a rise in house completions, stock still fell far short of demand. Picture: Ken Walsh