Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We are hoping to compile a report and make recommendations. I have heard a lot about and there was a comment today about the RTB's small research capacity, or it being out sick today. In some ways, it is amusing but when one looks at the job of work the RTB has to do to have its resources that tight, that say to me that it is not getting enough resources in terms of funding and staff. The work the RTB does and the information it gathers is very important. My office has been in contact and it was discussed earlier in relation to the delays. Hopefully, we will see big improvements in this regard in the new year. From a funding point of view, please let the committee know what is needed. We will do everything we can to support it.

Compared to other European countries that have similar bodies, is the RTB on a level playing field with those regarding powers and resources? In Germany, if a tenant makes a complaint against a landlord, the rent could come down until the property has been improved. The level of rent increase is very low, less than 1%, I think. In Germany, they have good quality properties, with good supports for landlords.