Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have had a series of engagements with the RTB and I know that rent arrears is a significant issue and, in fact, a number of cases that come before the RTB for dispute resolution relate to rent arrears. We have measures, through social protection, to help with rent arrears. I have agreement from the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection to see if we can do more to target and help people in rent arrears. However, I cannot accept the amendment because, whether its the intention or not, it effectively permits people not to pay rent where rent is owed. That would be very unfair on a person who might be relying on the rent coming from the property for their livelihood. We cannot accept that amendment.