31/07/2014

DCC Urged To Take 'Firm And Urgent Action' On Rent Arrears

Dublin City Council has been urged to take "firm and urgent action" to collect rent arrears, Fine Gael has said.

The party's TD for Dublin South Central, Catherine Byrne, said that the transfer of of tenants with "significant" arrears should stop "until arrangements are put in place with these tenants to work to clear their arrears".

"I am aware that some tenants with up to €10,000 in arrears are being transferred to alternative accommodation by the Council under regeneration schemes or due to anti-social behaviour," Ms Byrne said.

"I believe that such transfers should cease until arrangements are put in place with these tenants to work to clear their arrears. Those on social welfare payments have a responsibility to pay a contribution towards their rent from their social welfare payment.

"With thousands of people on the social housing list, many of whom would gladly pay their rent in full, it's time that a clear message is sent out by the Council to people who are taking liberties with the system. Tenancy agreements must stipulate that accounts should be clear or in credit before a transfer will be considered."

(MH/JP)

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