Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

Section 25 relates to tenancy agreements under the rental accommodation scheme. It is not considered appropriate in this context to deal with non-payment of arrears as powers are provided elsewhere for housing authorities to deal sympathetically with tenants who fall into arrears. Section 31(6)(f) allows for a housing authority to include in its rent scheme procedures, where appropriate, to waive rent in whole or in part on a temporary basis in cases of financial hardship. A further provision included in section 25(11) relates to tenants under the rental accommodation scheme and allows the housing authority to reduce the rent contribution owing to a tenant's move into that scheme from a rent supplement position. The amendments are not necessary and I ask Senators to withdraw them.

As I mentioned earlier, I undertook on Committee Stage to consider the inclusion of some general provisions on tenancy support services and I remain minded to do so. The description of the type of services involved in this area is potentially too vague for statutory interpretation. As such, further work is required to develop a sufficiently robust provision for inclusion in the Bill. I will continue to consult the Parliamentary Counsel with a view to bringing forth a suitable amendment on Committee Stage in the Lower House.