Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I have recently announced my intention to review aspects of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 with a view to considering the scope for further improvements to the legislative framework within which the Private Residential Tenancies Board operates. This would support the achievement of additional operational efficiencies by the board in the delivery of its functions. My Department is currently undertaking the necessary preparatory work for this review and I hope it will yield a preliminary outcome by autumn 2009.

The PRTB has not brought specific concerns to my attention in regard to the use of licensing arrangements as a mechanism for circumventing the provisions of the Act. Nevertheless, I will arrange for the issue to be considered as part of the review. As I indicated to Deputy Ciarán Lynch at a recent meeting to discuss issues around the operation of the Act, I would welcome any evidence that indicates the Act is the subject of abuse or circumvention in the manner outlined. I will ensure that such evidence is carefully examined in the course of the review.

See this speech in context