Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I challenge the criteria being used. I accept and acknowledge there is no political involvement in the formula but the formula is wrong. In Drogheda, rents increased in each of the past six quarters. They have increased by 16% in the past year, which is much in excess of 7%. Poorer families are supported more because they have a greater problem. This is recognised by the Department of Social Protection and now by the Minister's Department.

I have asked the RTB to re-examine its formula. It is based on new available properties for rent, not on existing ones. There are very few houses available for rent in Drogheda in any case. People cannot get them. Those who are in properties accept rent increases because they have nowhere else to go.

I looked at www.daft.ie, which is mentioned in the statement from the Minister's Department. On Monday of this week, there were 46 properties listed in the Drogheda area.

Drogheda is larger than just the town and stretches out to Clogherhead and almost to Dún Laoghaire. It is a huge area. Of the 46 properties, two thirds had rents of €1,000 or higher, which is more than the national average of €956. Most of the Drogheda properties below the €956 level were one- or two-bedroom apartments.

Is the RTB's formula correct? Is its mix of housing right? In urban areas, people are being charged a great deal for small, terraced houses. In east Meath, which I am happy has been included in a rent pressure zone, properties tend to be semi-detached housing or apartments.

I welcome the Minister's commitment to re-examine the matter. Poor families must be looked after and protected, but we are not protecting them under the formula. It must change.

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