Sinn Fein TD Eoin O Broin has called on the government to help renters during the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, which is expected to infect thousands by the end of the month.
The spokesperson for housing feels more has to be done for those with licenses or verbal agreements to rent-a-room, who are without protection.
Deputy O Broin commented on the Emergency Bill that was published by the government on Tuesday, which has measures to assist renters.
He said: "We welcome the publication of the Bill and if it is passed it will prevent landlords from issuing 'Notices to Quit' or to evict tenants for a minimum of three months. Landlords will also be prevented from increasing rents during this emergency period.
“Further, all existing 'Notices to Quit' and Residential Tenancies Board proceedings on such notices will be suspended. The Minister will have the power to extend these measures if the Covid-19 crisis continues."
However, he said the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Bill 2020, does not go far enough.
He added: “I have submitted amendments to protect renters who don’t have a tenancy arrangement and who have licences or verbal agreements to rent-a-room.
“I have also submitted an amendment calling on the Minister to publish a report outlining measures that would provide for rent reductions or waivers for those in the private rented sector, who due to loss of income arising from Covid-19 restrictions have accumulated significant rent arrears during the emergency period.
“It is my hope that these amendments will receive wider support and that we can do right by renters.”
