Labour demands protections for renters as homeless figures reach new high

Labour Leader and Spokesperson on Housing, Ivana Bacik TD, has condemned the Government’s failure to address Ireland’s housing crisis, following the publication of the most recent homeless figures which show 14,486 people are now living in emergency accommodation, and including a devastating 4,419 children. Bacik reiterated Labour’s commitment to protecting renters and ending homelessness, as set out in the Party’s alternative budget.

Labour’s Alternative Budget proposals include a fair deal for renters:

• Double the Rent Tax credit to €1,500 in 2024 and 2025 (at a cost of €320 million)
• Develop a Rents Register and a Deposit Protection Scheme (combined cost of €3 million)
• Enact Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill to introduce a three-year rent freeze, restrict reasons for evictions and develop a Rent to Buy scheme

Deputy Bacik said:

“We know that the majority of people entering homelessness are coming from the private rental sector. This Government has utterly failed to put protection of renters at the core of its housing policy. The relentless insecurity faced by so many renters, and the constant fear of eviction, must come to an end. Many renters across Ireland are living in a state of anxiety, and we can be certain that they will make their voices heard when an election is called.

“Under this Government’s much-trumpeted ‘Housing for All’ plan, we have seen record levels of homelessness, with rents up 27% and house prices increasing by a quarter over the last three years. The plan is a complete failure by every measure, and this Government has thrown in the towel.

“Too many young people have lost all hope of ever owning their own home. Many are stuck living in their childhood bedrooms, unable to afford the sky-high rent prices that have become the norm in our communities. The Government’s housing policy is failing an entire generation.

The figures released today further highlight the extent of the housing crisis. Bacik stated that Labour’s alternative budget includes radical and realistic plans to address the crisis and bring hope back to those suffering under the current system.

“Labour has a clear plan for building better, together. We would introduce stronger protections for renters and invest in building the public housing we so desperately need. Our plan is about building homes that people can afford, homes for families, for young people, and for the future.

“This Government has had years to act and has failed at every turn. The housing crisis has worsened under their watch, with the most vulnerable in our society paying the price. We need a new Government with the will and the vision to address housing for everyone in emergency accommodation – but especially for the 4,419 children who deserve so much better.

“We cannot continue the current trajectory. This Government has proven itself incapable of tackling this crisis. We need a change of Government, one that will put the protection of renters and the provision of affordable, accessible housing at the heart of its programme. The time for empty promises is over. Labour has the plan and the political will to end homelessness and to finally give renters the security they need.”