Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 October 2019
316. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the extent to which her Department can assist towards emergency rent support in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42895/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department awarded a rent supplement payment for the person concerned on 9/10/19 and her payment has been backdated to 1/5/19. Her first payment including arrears will issue on 24/10/19. The person concerned has been advised accordingly.
The Deputy will be aware that as the rental property in question is in an area designated as a Rental Pressure Zone (RPZ) under the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016, rents are only permitted to rise according to a prescribed formula by a maximum of 4% annually.
The person concerned notified my Department of the change in her circumstances and was asked to submit documentation confirming the increase in her rent. Her claim will be re-assessed in line with current legislation and guidelines when this is received.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
