Maria McCormack (Sinn Fein)

The ARP scheme is actively distorting the rental sector and creating serious inequalities. Let us call it what it is: the ARP in its current form is deeply unfair. It was introduced in good faith to support people opening their homes to those fleeing war. Let me be clear. We commend every family and individual who did just that but the scheme has spiralled beyond its original purpose.

Sinn Féin has consistently raised red flags. We warned that without reform, this payment could create an incentive for landlords to opt out of the regular rental market, and that is exactly what is happening across the country. I am hearing from landlords who say the ARP is a more lucrative option. They get a guaranteed payment from the State, often with top-up payments from tenants and with none of the responsibilities that come with formal rental agreements. What is worse is the complete lack of accountability.

The Minister has not commissioned any proper assessment of the impact this scheme is having on the rental market. We need data because I am hearing that it is distorting the market. We have seen the payment lurch from €400 to €800 and now €600 without any explanation or logic. Taxpayers need to know how their money is being spent.

The core issue that cannot be ignored is that there is no means test for beneficiaries. Someone in a secure, well-paid job can access this support while others in greater need of housing supports are left behind. That inequality breeds resentment, which is understandable. It is a recipe for division. In addition, some ARP recipients are receiving unregulated top-up payments. We have heard from landlords who say this is widespread and as long as these top-ups continue unchecked, the payment reduction from €800 to €600 will make no real difference.

Sinn Féin is not calling for a cliff edge. We are not looking to put anyone at risk of homelessness. What we are calling for with this amendment is a fair, balanced and workable scheme that supports genuine hosts without undermining the rental sector. That is why we have brought forward this amendment. I urge colleagues to support it. The amendment would introduce a means test for beneficiaries, like every other housing payment in this country. It would limit new applications to primary residents to ensure we are supporting people who are genuinely opening their homes and not enriching private landlords. It would ban top-up payments to stop exploitation and protect the integrity of the scheme.

These are reasonable, necessary changes. Without them, this House should not and cannot support the extension of the ARP in its current form. This is about fairness. It is about protecting the housing market and using public money responsibly. I urge Members to accept the amendment and we can get this motion passed.