> In Europe or even New York, you can rent flats which are large enough for a family and constructed to give you a sense of privacy, even with density

Not in Ireland. The last housing boom (late 90s/early 00s) gave us poor quality apartment blocks along with deficient building control regulations which in essence allowed developers to self-certify.

Which leads me to agree with your statements: "Every time they mass-build housing, the results are horrible" & "aimed at single 20 somethings without any thought to the long term or general community"

Made horrible as:

1) plenty of work so sub standard builders get away with it.

2) plenty of work so jobs are rushed

3) far left shouting for loads of (mainly free) housing to b e built right now.

4) plenty of work that any and all officials rush through decision making/inspection so that they don't have get chewed out of it.

Even with good facilities around and location being very walkable, nothing can compensate for not having a nice peaceful place to lay your head.