Tom Brabazon (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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217. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the initiatives he will be taking in relation to rent pressure zones; if he is aware of concerns about their possible abolition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5433/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) were introduced under Part 3 of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 to moderate rent increases in those parts of the country where rents are highest and rising fastest. The Planning and Development Act 2024, extended the operation of these rent controls until 31 December 2025.

In 2024 my Department completed a review of the Irish rental sector. This review noted clear challenges with the current system of rent controls using RPZs while acknowledging the need to ensure the regulatory system for the rental market adequately balances the interests of landlords and tenants and supports a sustainable long-term model for rent price regulation.

My Department has requested the Housing Agency to undertake a review which will assess the operation of RPZs and it is expected that this review will be completed by end of Q1 2025. I will consider the review and any recommendations contained therein once completed and will bring proposals to Government as required.