Publicity about rent assistance
Brady urged a campaign to inform elderly tenants of their rights amid confusion about rent assistance; the Minister said he would check that court forms were available and consider advertising.
I had to wait a long time for the information which I sought earlier. Would the Minister not agree, in the light of the information which he has just now given the House, that this would confirm the view that there is widespread confusion over the operation of this rent assistance? Would he give consideration to engaging in some way in a publicity campaign to alert elderly people of their rights in this respect? That would go a long way towards alleviating the dreaded fear which elderly people are experiencing at the moment. As a Dubliner, the Minister must be aware of that.
Comment on this
I agree with the Deputy that we should do everything possible. I have suggested that in the courts where these cases are heard the relevant notices and forms be readily available. I will have it checked that that has been done and will also consider — and believe it is necessary — an advertising campaign. The Deputy in his opening remarks indicated that at least I had answered the question. I might add that the question has just now been put down for answer.