The Republic of Ireland’s upcoming general election on Friday has sparked a flurry of promises from the major political parties regarding the use of a massive €14bn tax windfall from Apple. This follows a ruling by the EU’s highest court in September, which found that Apple had benefited from an illegal tax deal in Ireland and ordered the government to collect the back taxes and interest.
As the election draws near, all major parties have outlined plans to allocate the money towards addressing the country’s most pressing issues, notably housing and infrastructure.
Fianna Fáil, the largest party in the current coalition government, has committed to using €4bn for social and affordable housing, acknowledging that the ongoing housing crisis is one of the country’s most significant social and economic challenges. An additional €2bn is earmarked for a “Towns Investment Fund,” aimed at improving infrastructure and expanding serviced sites for new housing projects.
Fianna Fáil’s coalition partner, Fine Gael, has also pledged a substantial portion of the windfall to housing, although it has not specified an exact amount. The party’s focus is on using the funds to address Ireland’s critical housing shortage, as well as other infrastructure needs, including transport and energy systems.
Sinn Féin, the largest opposition party, has outlined an ambitious housing plan, allocating €7.6bn for a public housing programme. Additionally, the party would allocate €1bn for a redress scheme to help homeowners whose properties are affected by defective building materials. Sinn Féin’s proposals are focused on improving living conditions for working-class families, including the creation of a €1bn Community Investment Fund to revitalize public spaces, sports facilities, and childcare services in underserved areas.
The Labour Party, which could play a role in forming a coalition, has pledged €6bn to establish a state-owned construction company to ensure consistent housing delivery and counteract the “for-profit” model of housing development.
Meanwhile, the Green Party, currently the junior partner in government, is proposing to direct €7bn of the Apple money toward enhancing public transport infrastructure. This includes expanding Dublin’s tram and light rail systems and reopening the Wexford to Waterford railway line, alongside upgrading other rail links.
In addition to housing and transport, parties have proposed investments in the country’s energy and water sectors. Fine Gael aims to use part of the funds to improve the electricity grid and water systems, while Sinn Féin seeks to invest in renewable energy projects. Both parties have emphasized the importance of sustainable infrastructure for Ireland’s future growth.
As the election approaches, the tax windfall from Apple is set to play a central role in shaping the country’s future policies, with each party vying to use the funds to address key national challenges and secure voter support.
