Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

On the Deputy's question about the operation of the banks at present with regard to buy-to-let mortgages, many of which are in difficulty, as recently as last week there was a meeting of the Cabinet sub-committee at which this was discussed in some detail. My view is that we might have an arrangement whereby, when a bank appoints a receiver, it could be a rent receiver.

There is no doubt that in some cases receivers are, in effect, seeking quick vacant possession, and this is increasing the pressure. Many buy-to-let landlords are, perhaps, accidental or part-time landlords and they are now handing back their houses. A receiver may not be aware of the difficulties that a repossession may pose for a tenant. The banks have an obligation to citizens in this country to take into account the impact on tenants of their seeking a sudden or rapid vacant possession. I am happy to talk to the banks about the impact of this on tenants in receipt of rent supplement, because the Department will continue to pay the rent. Unless the house is to be sold immediately, it would appear to me that there is a great deal of scope for an agreement in regard to a further letting period, notwithstanding that the house may ultimately be sold.

In regard to housing supply, approximately 600 of the 1,000 boarded up houses, particularly in the Dublin area, which are known also as voids because the tenancy was surrendered, will be available for re-let by end April 2015, with the remainder coming on stream during the rest of the year. Although it takes time to build houses, there will be additional supply coming on stream next year.

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