The Council of the European Union has adopted a non-binding recommendation urging member states to strengthen efforts to prevent homelessness and housing exclusion. The guidance suggests implementing early-warning systems, emergency rent support, debt counseling, and strategies to increase the supply of affordable and social housing.
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The opposition Socialist Party (PS) in Gaia has proposed three housing measures to be discussed at the municipal council meeting on Tuesday, 2026-10-06: the immediate reinstatement of a rental support program for 450 families (with plans to reach 900 by 2027), a requirement for social housing allocations to be approved in public council meetings, and the creation of a Local Housing Council. The proposed rental support targets four specific groups: youth up to 35, single-parent families, seniors over 65, and people with disabilities.
The PSD is criticizing a PS proposal to revoke tax incentives for "moderate" rents (up to 2,300 euros) to fund VAT exemptions on essential food items. The PSD argues this move would effectively end current rent subsidies and the 6% reduced VAT rate for new construction projects, potentially driving up housing prices.
European leaders warn the current energy situation is critical and predict a difficult winter, arguing that current EU support measures fail to address the urgency of rising energy costs.