The new Chair of Healthy Homes Ireland, Susan Vickers, has called on the new government to make health a key consideration when developing regulations to improve the energy efficiency of existing homes that require upgrading. Healthy Homes Ireland (HHI) is a collaborative forum of leaders in the built environment, housing and public health that aims to influence public policy to advance greener, healthier homes. The forum is supported by the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) and VELUX.
Susan will lead the Forum in its aim to positively influence public policy and practice by bringing together industry stakeholders to consider how to address health problems caused by existing homes requiring energy upgrades and ensure there is no compromise between health and energy efficiency in new build and renovated homes. Susan assumed the position from former Chair Kevin O’Rourke, who departed in October after three years in the role. During that time, he was instrumental in leading the initiative, undertaking an extensive programme of engagement with stakeholders to advocate for policy measures to achieve healthy homes.
Susan is head of environmental sustainability at Clúid Housing, Ireland’s leading approved housing body (AHB), where she is heading up the delivery of its sustainability strategy, including an ambitious retrofit programme to improve the sustainability of its existing housing stock with deep retrofit works completed on over 2,150 homes between 2018 and 2024
Susan has been a central member of the HHI steering group since its inception in 2021. Her extensive experience driving the sustainability agenda at Clúid and leading on the delivery of quality and sustainable homes will be invaluable to advancing HHI’s mission of achieving healthier, greener homes in the state.
Susan stated, “I am delighted to take up the role of Chair of Healthy Homes Ireland as I am passionate about sustainability and protecting the health and wellbeing of the people of Ireland. It is imperative that the new government, whenever it is formed, integrates health considerations into public policy and in the delivery of both newbuild and retrofit homes.”
Marion Jammet, IGBC Head of Policy and Advocacy, welcomed Susan’s appointment as Chair: “Susan brings expertise and passion to this crucial task of transforming Ireland’s built environment and housing sector, moving the dial toward more sustainable practices through policy and education, which advances the health and wellbeing of our people. The IGBC looks forward to working with Susan in this new role.”
Velux Public Affairs Manager Great Britain and Ireland Neil Freshwater said: “Previous research has shown that air quality, cold, damp, lack of soundproofing and insufficient daylight are issues in many Irish homes. Given that these factors can negatively affect individuals’ health and well-being, we must look at ways to improve the health of our living environment. Regardless of which parties form the new Government, it is imperative they take steps to address the impact poor quality housing can have on health.”
