Dublin City Council must take action to collect rent arrears – Byrne

Fine Gael TD for Dublin South Central, Catherine Byrne, has called on Dublin City Council to take firm and urgent action to collect significant rent arrears owed by some of their tenants.

“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.

“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.”