Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is a lot of discussion of dysfunction in the housing system. There is also a certain dysfunction in the rental sector. I do not agree with an eviction ban. Obviously people should be helped, but if somebody is refusing to pay their rent or gaming the system a landlord should be able to remove them. There is a huge problem in people intentionally gaming the system. They go to the Residential Tenancies Board, RTB. There is a big delay in that. They appeal that to the board and then wait for court enforcement. It goes on for well over a year. Meanwhile someone is trying to pay a mortgage on a property and there is no summary procedure to remove somebody. On the other hand, landlords should be renting out properties that are fit for purpose and there should be inspections. It goes back to 2013 when I stood here and called for a proper inspection procedure. Things have improved in recent years. Threshold is calling for a mandatory system whereby a landlord is required to obtain a certificate from a local authority every four years. Will the Taoiseach cure either of those problems? They are both important matters.

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