asked the Minister for Local Government if he will introduce regulations governing the letting of furnished rooms or flats.

Housing authorities are empowered under section 70 of the Housing Act, 1966, to make bye-laws setting minimum standards for rented accommodation. To assist the authorities in this task I circulated them with model bye-laws on the 28th June, 1973. A number of authorities have now indicated that they propose to adopt bye-laws based on the model while others have suggested amendments to it. These amendments are being considered by my Department at present.

I have been asked by Deputy Gogan to inquire if the Minister would direct that greater publicity be given to the circular. Apparently some people are not aware of their rights in this matter.

It is a matter for local authority members to ensure that this matter is dealt with. There is no point in telling the general public if local authority members are not prepared to support the efforts of the Government to deal with this matter in a fair way.

I understand the Coalition control most of the local authorities. I am not a member of any such authority. Would the Minister take the initiative to ensure that publicity is given to the rights of the individual, as the Department of Social Welfare are doing in connection with matters in their sphere?

From the replies we have received it appears that the local authorities concerned are aware of their responsibilities and are taking the necessary steps.

Individuals are not aware of this.

The local authorities will be bringing the matter to the notice of individuals.