Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Oct 1992

Vol. 423 No. 8

Written Answers. - Tenants' Rights.

Jim Mitchell

Question:

101 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the widespread concern which has arisen from a proposal to refurbish Temple Buildings, Dublin 7, especially in relation to the protection of the position of existing residents, approximately two thirds of whom appear not to have the protection of the provisions of the Housing (Private Rented Dwellings) Act, 1982, he will outline the steps, if any, open to him under that part of the Landlord and Tenant Code for which he is responsible to protect residents in that position; and if he will further outline the steps he now proposes to take in the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

The Deputy will appreciate that interpretation of the law is not a function of the Minister for Justice. That apart, I can say that the rights of the tenant fall in the first place to be dealt with by reference to the terms of the lease or other tenancy agreement which he or she holds. The Landlord and Tenant (Amendment) Act, 1980 gives to tenants, in certain specified circumstances, a right to a new tenancy on termination of their existing tenancy. There is also provision, in limited circumstances, for compensation to be paid in lieu of a new tenancy.

There are no steps open to me under landlord and tenant legislation in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy.

The Housing Acts are of course, a matter for the Minister for the Environment.