Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Harte's comments on the report of the Ombudsman, Ms Emily O'Reilly, into what is nothing short of an appalling treatment of older people in our society. I support his call for a debate with the relevant Minister on this matter.

Senators Harte and Brennan ensure that there is unceasing support for County Donegal in the House. Therefore, I must on occasion be moved to stand and extol the virtues of Dún Laoghaire because if I do not I shall fail my local area completely.

I wish to mention the rental sector. One in five people, or 20%, live in the private rented sector. We have 7% of the population living in social housing which is the lowest proportion in the history of the State. It represents a complete and total sea change in housing. Some months ago the Residential Tenancies (Amendment)(No. 2) Bill was published. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the private rental sector as it would inform forthcoming legislation on housing.

Yesterday I attended the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform and it was brought to my attention that NAMA has 10,000 rented properties. That means that one in 25 rented properties are controlled by NAMA which makes it the largest landlord after Dublin City Council. The appalling behaviour of some receivers towards tenants has been brought to my attention because they take the rent but do not carry out maintenance. They refuse to take responsibility when essential features break down such as heating and water supply which has led to great difficulties. The Seanad could have a useful debate on the security of tenure for tenants and the future of the sector and I ask the Leader to consider arranging it.