Local Authority perceptions of housing associations

Abstract

In contrast to the situation in the UK, Irish housing associations remain dependent on the local authorities for access to funding and sites. As a result of their dual role as enablers and direct providers of social housing, an uneasy relationship between the local authorities and housing associations seems to have emerged. This paper aims to explore local-authority officials' perceptions of the sector and to examine whether attitudes within the local authorities tend to promote voluntary housing or act as a barrier to the development of the sector. It is important to note that the purpose of this paper is not to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of housing associations, as the opinions expressed by local-authority officials do not necessarily provide an accurate reflection of reality.