Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The latest Daft report shows that rents in Longford have risen by a whopping 20% to an average of just under €1,350 per month. This represents the highest percentage rental cost increase in the entire country. It is an increase of close to 80% since just before the pandemic four years ago. Today, there are only 11 properties to rent in a county with a population of more than 45,000 people. A three-bedroom property would cost around €1,400 a month to rent. Even if they can get viewings, working families simply cannot afford these prices. What is happening is crippling those who simply need somewhere to call home. Those involved in industry tell us the same thing because what is happening is crippling their expansion plans. The median income in Longford is €36,000. These prices are not sustainable. What does the Minister intend to do to address the increase?

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