“The €600 Question” - A Reflection on the Future of Hosting in Ireland

This week, the Irish Examiner published a piece written by HIH CEO and Co-Founder, Angie Gough. It reflects on the government’s decision to reduce the Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) from €800 to €600, and what that means for the future of community-led hosting in Ireland.

Angie wrote it during a time of big transition for HIH. As our official role in the state response winds down, this is a moment to pause and reflect on what’s been built, what’s at stake, and why this still matters so deeply.

This isn’t just about policy. It’s about people - the hosts who stepped up, and the guests who’ve turned houses into homes. It’s about the magic in the mess, the courage to keep going, and the belief that community-led welcome is something worth protecting.

Here’s a short excerpt:

“Hosting was never going to be simple. From the beginning, it’s been messy, unpredictable, and deeply human. But that’s where the magic is too. It’s in the thousands of people who stepped up, opening their doors and their lives to help others…”

We’d love you to give it a read, share it if it resonates, and continue being part of the conversation about what comes next.

👉 Read the full piece in the Irish Examiner here