Total funding from central government to local authorities more than doubled since 2019, with a 28% increase in funding to €8.6 billion in 2024, according to the latest report from the Comptroller & Auditor General.

The main sources of funding have come from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Local Government Fund, and the Department of Transport.

The delivery of social and affordable housing, along with other housing supports were the main reasons for which funding was provided in 2024. Other main purposes included transport investment, business supports, and support for environmental initiatives.

The 2024 report, released on 30 September by the State’s spending watchdog, shows that funding for housing and regeneration increased by around €1.3 billion (34%) last year to €4.9 billion. There was slight drop in total funding for transport investment to €1.6 billion, from €1.61 billion in 2023.

When it comes to funding for the country’s roads, €445 million was allocated to local authorities for the improvement of national roads, down from €526 million in 2023. However, funding for the improvement of regional and local roads increased from €685 million to €733 million.

Local authority funding for public transport and active travel also increased – up €23 million in 2024 to €423 million. Total funding for environmental initiatives increased, in addition to investment in employment and business schemes which jumped from €108 million in 2023 to €534 in 2024.