Longford rental increases
Deputy Clarke highlighted sharp rent rises and very limited supply in Longford, saying families could not afford current prices. The Minister pointed to overall housing delivery and existing plans, while the Deputy rejected the argument that the problem was being addressed on this Government's watch.
The latest Daft report shows that rents in Longford have risen by a whopping 20% to an average of just under €1,350 per month. This represents the highest percentage rental cost increase in the entire country. It is an increase of close to 80% since just before the pandemic four years ago. Today, there are only 11 properties to rent in a county with a population of more than 45,000 people. A three-bedroom property would cost around €1,400 a month to rent. Even if they can get viewings, working families simply cannot afford these prices. What is happening is crippling those who simply need somewhere to call home. Those involved in industry tell us the same thing because what is happening is crippling their expansion plans. The median income in Longford is €36,000. These prices are not sustainable. What does the Minister intend to do to address the increase?
Comment on this
What we intend to do is to continue to build on the progress we are making. I have been in Longford and other places across the country many times. We have dealt with ten years of significant housing supply. Thankfully, since this Government came into office, we have delivered 110,000 new homes. I have been in Longford many times and have seen the fantastic new homes being built there. We need to keep working and double down to deliver more homes for people.
We will never turn this around in two or three years. We have a plan that is backed, that is being implemented and that is financed. What we are doing is in stark contrast to what the Deputy's party has to offer. We have brought forward supports, such as the waiver of the development levy, which Sinn Féin opposed. It then came in the following week and said it does not oppose the levy. To be fair, it is a very serious issue. Across the board, we need a stable private rental market. Sinn Féin's housing spokesperson's comments on the private rental market are driving landlords out of and removing properties from the market. What people say has consequences.
Comment on this
This is happening on your watch, Minister.
Comment on this
Sinn Féin has to be responsible too.