Time for a Fairer Rental Market in Ireland

• Government failure has fuelled housing disaster

Labour Leader and Housing Spokesperson Ivana Bacik TD has expressed deep concern following the publication of the latest Daft report, which found that rents across Ireland have surged by an average of 7.3% in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year. The report highlights the worsening crisis facing renters and underscores the urgent need for the government to adopt a new approach that prioritises tenants’ rights and security.

Deputy Bacik said,

“This latest increase in rents is yet another stark reminder that the government’s approach to housing is failing. Renters across the country are struggling to keep up with soaring costs, and the situation is becoming increasingly unsustainable.

“Labour’s vision for a fair and affordable rental sector directly challenges this status quo. Our Renters’ 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 if passed would provide a lifeline to renters facing uncertainty and instability in their housing situations.”

Labour’s comprehensive plan goes beyond protecting renters. Deputy Bacik emphasised the broader scope of Labour’s housing strategy, stating, “Our plan is comprehensive: we will protect renters, end speculative land hoarding, and double the state’s delivery of cost rental and affordable housing. The reliance on private development as a solution is fundamentally flawed and only serves to exacerbate the housing crisis. The policies of this Fine Gael – Fianna Fáil government have eroded the social contract, leaving rising numbers of children and families in homelessness; and leaving renters vulnerable and without recourse.

“We’re coming up to the three year anniversary of Housing for All. The crisis we find ourselves demands a step change in policy approach with a renewed focus on vastly increasing supply of housing and on creating more protections for those renting their homes.”

“As rents continue to rise and more people are pushed into precarious living situations, the need for decisive action has never been clearer.

“We need urgent action to end the crisis, and Labour is ready. It’s time to rebuild the social contract, increase the supply of homes; and ensure that every renter in Ireland can live with dignity and security.”