Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
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With effect from 27 March 2020, new emergency measures were introduced into law to protect tenants during the COVID-19 emergency period. Tenants cannot be forced to leave their rental accommodation during this period, other than in exceptional circumstances. Initially, these emergency legislative provisions will last for a period of 3 months, but they may be extended if the Government considers it necessary.

Rent increases are prohibited during the period but rent decreases can be implemented. Outside of the usual rent review cycle, temporary reductions in rent can be implemented on an informal basis by agreement between the two parties.

The Department recently published a Guidance Document on COVID-19 supports for landlords and tenants which sets out the emergency rental measures and income and other supports available to tenants and landlords during the emergency period. The Guidance document is available and a list of Frequently Asked Questions has been developed and is available .

The matter of facilities for self-isolation where it is not possible to self-isolate at home is a matter for the Health Service Executive, which comes under the aegis of my colleague, the Minister for Health.