John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)

Will the Minister of State outline the Government's proposals to ensure housing management companies operate in a fair and transparent manner and that residents are aware of their rights in regard to such companies? We are all aware that the number of housing management companies has increased at an enormous rate in recent years, and many of them are associated with new apartment complex developments. Situations have arisen in many areas that leave much to be desired. Fees are likely to increase at any time and, in some cases, the level and range of services is poor.

This section of the market is poorly regulated. In light of changes in yesterday's budget on tax relief for first-time buyers, it would be remiss not to review this area. Many first-time buyers are on extremely tight budgets and some are faced with considerable fees from the management company of the apartment or housing complex in which they purchase their home. These fees may be the equivalent of two monthly mortgage instalments. Deputies from Dublin frequently encounter constituents who complain that they are paying management fees but receiving only inadequate service or none at all. Fees generally include such services as refuse collection and maintenance of public areas but residents often complain that there is no standard of service in return for the exceptionally high charges.

My colleague, Deputy Andrews, and I seek specific proposals from the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in this regard. We accept the need for management companies in gated and enclosed housing and apartment complexes. There must, however, be a level of supervision, regulation and inspection, whether on the part of local authorities or the Department. Residents must have some means of recourse other than the legal route, which is prohibitively expensive for many.

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