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

I move amendment No. 10:

In page 6, between lines 6 and 7, to insert the following:

"(3) The Minister shall, within 12 months of the passing of this Act, lay a report before both Houses of the Oireachtas that— (a) Sets out proposals to strengthen the security of tenure including a review of the current grounds for termination, (b) Reviews effectiveness of the current rent pressure zone rules and provides recommendations for reform, and (c) Outlines proposals for a new accessible, readable and consolidated Residential Tenancies Act.".

This amendment provides that within 12 months of the passing of this Act a report be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and that such report look at security of tenure, the effectiveness of the current rent pressure zone rules, which I do not believe are effective, and on providing a consolidated Residential Tenancies Act. There is a need for a consolidated Act. The current legislation is complex and difficult for tenants, landlords and everybody involved in supporting the people in the sector, to follow. Legislation should be clear and simple. We could benefit from a consolidated Act.

I want to note that a few years ago a similar amendment to a Finance Act resulted in a report on vacant homes, namely, the Indecon report, which contains very useful information and is being used by the Government to try to formulate its policy on a vacant homes tax. I ask that this amendment be considered.

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