asked the Minister for the Environment when he proposes to introduce a comprehensive set of regulations in compliance with section 26 of the Housing (Private Rented Dwellings) Act, 1982; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I would refer the Deputy to my replies to Questions Nos. 56 and 57 of 11 November 1987. Statutory regulations have been made prescribing standards for certain rented dwellings. From 1 January last, the regulations apply to all formerly controlled dwellings. I am at present examining the question of standards for the private rented sector generally.

I am aware that the Minister has taken some action but in respect of the entitlement to a rent book or a rent receipt, is the Minister aware that certain people who are paying rent in the private sector are unable to qualify for a rent allowance to which they are entitled because their landlords have refused to give them rent receipts? In view of the hardship which is being imposed on these people, would the Minister consider it as one of his priorities to issue as a preliminary that particular entitlement so that all tenants can benefit under the rent allowance system which is in place and being administered by his colleague, the Minister for Social Welfare?

I am pleased that the Deputy recognises that I am doing something in that regard but it does not have any bearing, as he indicated in his question, on section 26 of the Housing (Private Rented Dwellings) Act, 1982 but rather on section 25 which deals with the issuing of rent books. I will keep his representations in mind in so far as any further action is concerned.