Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the latest housing commencement figures, which show continued momentum in home building both nationally and across Galway.

New data published by the Department of Housing confirms that 166 new homes have been commenced in Galway County so far in 2026, including 72 in February alone, alongside a further 49 homes commenced in Galway City.

Nationally, 3,423 new homes were commenced in February, bringing the total for the year to date to 5,469 homes a significant increase compared to 2,214 commenced during the same period in 2025.

Welcoming the figures, Minister Canney said: “These are really encouraging figures and they reflect steady progress on the ground. In Galway County alone, we’ve already seen 166 new homes commenced this year, which is a strong start and shows that delivery is happening.

“Every new commencement represents a home that will make a difference for a family, a couple or an individual looking to put down roots in their community. That’s what this is all about.

Minister Canney said the national figures point to continued confidence and momentum in the housing sector:

“The increase we’re seeing nationally – with commencements up significantly on last year – shows that the measures being put in place are having an impact. We’re seeing progress not just in commencements, but right across planning, completions and delivery.

“What’s important now is that we keep that momentum going and continue to support both public and private sector delivery so we can increase supply in a sustained way.”

Of the homes commenced nationally in February, over half were scheme dwellings, with apartments and one-off homes also making up a significant share, reflecting a mix of delivery types across urban and rural areas.

Minister Canney added: “The focus has to remain on delivering homes at scale, but also ensuring we are supporting regional development and strong, sustainable communities.”