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

This is not about being pro-landlord; rather, it is about being pro-investment and pro-stability in the rental sector.

I beg the Leas-Cheann Comhairle's indulgence for a few moments. The extension of rent pressure zones to the whole country would be unconstitutional. That was made clear when we were introducing the criteria for rent pressure zone designation. Rent pressure zones are working where they apply.

I have been notified that removing the intention to sell within three months as a ground for terminating a tenancy would also be unconstitutional. However, we could incentivise landlords to remain in the market. We could and should incentivise longer term leases. We could also incentivise the selling of rental properties with tenants in situ, a matter that I am considering with the Minister for Finance.

On a final note, rent affordability is key.

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