Cork City Council approves Traveller accommodation programme

Cork City Council has approved its Traveller Accommodation Programme (TAP), which aims to improve the quality of life for Travellers by providing safe housing options.

The TAP 2025-2029 was developed through an extensive consultation process, with 104 families contributing.

A survey indicated that 67% of respondents considered that their current accommodation was not suitable. 

Between existing and estimated future demand, 171 new homes may be needed over the next four years. 

The document recommended greater involvement of the Approved Housing Body (AHB) sector in Cork city, where AHBs provide 3% of Traveller accommodation, notably less than the national figure of 10%.

Green Party councillor and chair of the Cork City Council's Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee, Oliver Moran, said: “I don't believe there is a programme of this quality in any other local authority in the country.

“That includes the depth of research but particularly striking is involving Traveller children in presenting their experiences through drawings that stand out in the visual design of the report.

“In the last council term, we agreed a significant plan for Spring Lane and Ellis' Yard. That involved significant political will as well as support from the wider community. Now that has to move from a 'plan' to being a 'programme' of delivery.

“Delivering that isn't going to be without challenge. Spring Lane is a live site and developing on any live site is difficult. 

“But for residents of Spring Lane, conditions are so severe that it's hard to see beyond this week, never mind three or five years into the future.” 

He added that there is also work to be done in other locations, including Nash's Boreen and at the Carrigrohane Straight, as well as adjacent issues including proposals for a horse project.