O’Shea Calls on Cork County Housing Applicants to Actively Engage with Choice Based Lettings System

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has expressed serious concern that more than 1,200 housing applicants — out of a total of 6,540 approved applicants in Cork County Council — have yet to log on to the Council’s Choice Based Lettings (CBL) website.

The Choice Based Lettings system is the primary method by which social housing properties are allocated in Cork County. Under this system, available homes are advertised online each week and approved applicants are invited to “express an interest” in properties that meet their housing needs and preferred locations.

Deputy O’Shea said the system is designed to give applicants greater choice and transparency in the allocation process. “The Choice Based Lettings service allows applicants to see exactly what homes are available, where they are located, and what type of household they are suitable for. Rather than waiting passively for an offer, applicants can actively apply for properties that best suit their circumstances. However, this only works if applicants are engaging with the system.”

Each week, properties are advertised for a set period. Applicants who have an active housing application and who meet the criteria for a particular property can log into the CBL portal and register their interest. Following the closing date, properties are then allocated in accordance with the Council’s allocation scheme, taking into account factors such as time on the housing list and household circumstances.

Deputy O’Shea warned that failing to log on or express interest in available homes could result in missed opportunities. “It is concerning that over 1,200 approved applicants have not yet logged into the system. With housing demand at such high levels, it is essential that every available property is allocated as quickly and efficiently as possible. If applicants are not logging in regularly and expressing interest in suitable homes, they risk delaying their own housing prospects.”

The Deputy acknowledged that some applicants may face digital access challenges or may not fully understand how the system operates. “I would strongly encourage anyone on the housing list in Cork County to ensure their contact details are up to date and to log into the Choice Based Lettings website on a weekly basis. If you are having difficulty accessing the system or need assistance, Cork County Council’s Housing Department is available to provide guidance and support.”

Deputy O’Shea concluded by emphasising the importance of full participation in the system. “With over 6,500 applicants on the housing list, we must ensure that the Choice Based Lettings system is working to its full potential. Active engagement is a simple but vital step in helping individuals and families secure a home and in ensuring that no available property goes unallocated.”