The state paid private landlords more than 528 million euro last year under two social-housing schemes.
They got 382 million euro under the Housing Assistance Payment, and over 145 million under the Rental Accommodation Scheme.
Under both schemes, most of the rent is paid by councils, with the tenant making up the balance.
Fianna Fáil's housing spokesman, Darragh O'Brien, says money is being wasted and could be better spent on actually building social housing units.
TV's Brendan Courtney Helps Launch Wicklow Town Memory Café For People With Dementia
Calls For Support For Wicklow Bus Operators Amid Fuel Costs Rise
Bonjour Wicklow! French Travel Show Highlights Garden County as a 'Beautiful Escape'
Never-Say-Die Wicklow Hurlers Earn Kehoe Cup-League Double With Stirring Comeback Win
Have Your Seen Elizabeth?