In 2023, the Comptroller and Auditor General’s report shed light on delays and cost overruns in the Government’s rapid build housing program. Initially estimated at €200,000 per unit in 2022, costs soared to €436,000 per unit by 2024, nearly doubling. The Department of Children projected a final cost of €442,000 per unit.
Challenges arose in finding suitable sites for the program, delaying delivery. With the final site confirmed in 2024, the program faced setbacks due to unsuitable locations. The long-term use of the modular units post-Ukrainian BOTPs remains undetermined, posing a risk to the significant capital investment.
The report stressed the need for planning regularisation for sites and suggested developing a plan for long-term unit use. While a cost-benefit analysis was not conducted, the report recommended assessing the feasibility of the rapid build process post-program completion.
The OPW assured the assessment of the delivery mechanism will be timely and inclusive of various factors. The report highlighted the absence of green criteria in procurement and emphasized the importance of sustainability requirements.
Overall, the report urged swift action in addressing the challenges faced by the rapid build housing program to ensure cost-effectiveness and sustainability in the long run.
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