Labour slams Government inaction as advertised rents continue to soar

Labour’s housing Spokesperson Ivana Bacik TD was today reacting to the Daft Report published today which found advertised rents up 6.8% in 2023.

Deputy Bacik said:

"Today's Daft Report underscores the urgent need for government intervention in Ireland's rental sector. Despite a marginal slowdown in the rate of increase, the reality remains grim for renters across the country. With advertised rents rising by 6.8% in 2023, and a staggering 10.6% outside of Dublin, the government's failure to address this crisis is glaringly apparent.

"Labour’s vision for a fair and affordable rental sector challenges this status quo. Our Renter’s Rights Bill, introduced in 2021, would have offered a constructive solution to the ongoing crisis. By tackling 'no-fault' evictions and providing greater security of tenure, our bill aims to provide a lifeline to renters facing uncertainty and instability in their housing situations.

“A crucial element of Labour’s renters’ rights bill is to set up a rental transparency register here in Ireland. With clear and factual information, renters can be empowered to identify breaches of the Rental Pressure Zone rules. Similarly, it will disincentivise the landlords who are out there making a quick buck and huge profit off the back of the desperate rental situation we have.

"The reliance on private development as a solution is fundamentally flawed and only serves to exacerbate the housing crisis. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil's policies have eroded the social contract, leaving renters vulnerable and without recourse. It is time for the government to prioritise the rights and security of renters across Ireland.”