Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 29 Feb 2000

Vol. 515 No. 3

Written Answers. - Private Rented Accommodation.

Michael Bell

Question:

53 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when he will receive the report of the commission on the private rented sector; and the plans, if any, he has to provide any additional protections for people in private rented accommodation pending receipt of the report. [5963/00]

Seán Ryan

Question:

69 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has to introduce new legislation in the landlord and tenant area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5992/00]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 69 together.

I have asked the commission on the private rented residential sector to report to me by 1 June 2000. As part of the terms of reference, I have asked the commission to examine the working of the landlord and tenant relationship in respect of residential tenancies in the private rented sector and to make such recommendations, including changes to the law, as the commission considers proper, equitable and feasible with a view to improving the security of tenure of tenants in the occupation of their dwellings; and maintaining a fair and reasonable balance between the respective rights and obligations of landlords and existing and future tenants.

I will carefully examine the commission's recommendations, including any recommendations concerning the provision of additional protection for people in private rented accommodation, in consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, who is responsible for the general landlord and tenant legislative code.