Strong turnout for housing meeting in Kilkenny with Senator Patricia Stephenson and TD Rory Hearne

A large and engaged crowd gathered in Kilkenny on Tuesday night for a constructive and solutions-focused public meeting on housing, hosted by Senator Patricia Stephenson and Rory Hearne TD.

The meeting brought together local residents, community representatives, and housing advocates to discuss the urgent challenges facing people in Kilkenny and across the country from rising rents and long waiting lists to the need for affordable, sustainable homes in thriving communities.

“The turnout in Kilkenny shows how deeply people care about securing fair access to housing," said Senator Stephenson.

"What stood out last night was the energy, ideas, and the belief that change is possible when communities, policymakers, and campaigners work together. There was a real sense of hope and momentum.”

Rory Hearne TD, author and long-time housing advocate, praised the spirit of the meeting.

“People want action, not excuses. What we heard last night were practical, community-led ideas, from affordable housing schemes to stronger tenant protections and support for first-time buyers. It’s clear the people of Kilkenny want to be part of the solution," he said.

The event was described as 'one of the most positive and solution-driven community meetings in recent months', with attendees sharing personal experiences and offering constructive proposals on local housing development, planning, and the importance of social and affordable housing in rural and regional Ireland.

Senator Stephenson concluded:“This was a reminder that policy isn’t made in isolation; it’s built from the lived experience of people in rooms like this one. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who came out, and to Rory Hearne for his insights and commitment to housing justice.”

The meeting closed with a strong call for continued collaboration between local representatives, national policymakers, and communities to ensure that every person in Kilkenny and across Ireland can access a secure, affordable home.