Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 1304: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has plans to regulate the standard of private rented accommodation. [2881/08]

Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 1384: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will introduce regulations and standards for the rented housing sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2182/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1304 and 1384 together.

Minimum standards for private rented accommodation are prescribed in the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 1993, which specify requirements in relation to matters such as the structural condition of dwellings and their sanitary facilities, heating and ventilation. All landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their rented properties comply with these regulations. Failure to do so is an offence, subject, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €3,000, or a term of six months in prison or both and €250 for each day of a continuing offence. Responsibility for enforcing the regulations rests with the relevant local authority. In September 2006 a comprehensive Action Programme to promote improvement in standards of private rented accommodation was announced, involving a range of measures including improved regulation, enforcement, funding and information. Good progress is being made with this Programme, an important element of which is the updating of the existing standards regulations in consultation with relevant interests. Submissions received in that regard are being considered and draft revised regulations should be available by the end of March 2008.