Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In the 14 years I have been a TD, the current lack of availability of rental property is without doubt the worst I have seen. I live in Dundalk. I hold my clinics every Monday and Friday, and for the last number of months, the increased footfall has been unreal. People just cannot find affordable properties, especially if they are on HAP. There is a stigma to HAP. The number of people coming in and paying cash is unreal. A lot of properties in my area have risen to over €2,000 per month. Only for families and friends, a great many more people would be homeless. Last week, I visited a family of eight living in a two-bedroom apartment. If the Minister could see the condition of the apartment, the dampness, the windows and doors - it is an absolute disgrace. I ring the local authorities and all the rental companies. I ring around every Monday and Friday. The Simon Community is full, Women's Aid is full, emergency accommodation is full - everything is full. I have never, ever, in all my life, seen the situation as bad. What are the plans? I am not saying it is the Minister's fault, but the situation is getting worse and worse.

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