Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Over the years, due to a chronic housing shortage, people have felt compelled to take action to help their family members. In some cases the only option available was to allow a temporary dwelling to be located on the grounds of an existing property.

While not an ideal solution for anyone, it was a desperate attempt to ensure loved ones had a roof over their heads. I am attempting to support and assist many such families in Tipperary who live in daily fear of legal proceedings by the council for permitting an unauthorised dwelling on their property. All of these have valid reasons to retain the accommodation and have heartbreaking stories. Eviction would have horrendous consequences for the people involved. I am not asking for a proliferation of this practice to be allowed in the future. I am asking that there be an amnesty for those who have this type of accommodation in place for many years. I propose that a special licence be issued for a defined period. In the meantime, I am requesting the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, to instruct councils to refrain from taking legal action until a complete review of this matter is conducted. Yesterday, the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, confirmed to me that he would do that and would ask for a review. I am asking if he could put that on the record of the House, please?

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