Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Amendments Nos. 6, 8 and 9 are similar to those tabled by Deputy Duncan Smith, although they propose a different date. I would be happy with Deputy Duncan Smith's as alternatives if the Minister wishes to accept them as opposed to mine. Mine refer to the limited protections related to self-declaration by the 450 tenants. My proposals recognise that it will take time for incomes that have fallen due to Covid to recover in various sectors and for those who have built up debt over the Covid emergency to recover. The dates in this Bill are completely insufficient in that regard, and that is why I am tabling these amendments. Circumstances vary depending on the sector but, given how high rents are and how people are struggling to pay them, it is necessary for this Bill to extend the limited protections for a longer period.

It is welcome that the Minister has confirmed he is going to introduce legislation in the coming weeks to deal with the 8% rent increases. Those measures need to be strong and decisive. I hope they do not fall short.

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