August 12, 2021
Gap in HAP thresholds and rent rates highlights how government reliance on private rented sector is failing tenants – Eoin Ó Broin TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing, Eoin Ó Broin TD, has commented on the findings of the latest study by the homeless charity the Simon Communities. 

The August 2021 Locked Out of the Market Report shows that there was just 63 properties available to rent for households receiving the standard Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) rate.

Teachta Ó Broin said:

“The Simon Communities’ August 2021 Locked Out of the Market Report ‘ looked at the cost of renting in 16 locations across state. 

“The report found that out of 2,208 properties available to rent at any price, just 63 of those properties were available to rent within the standard HAP rates.

“In nine of the 16 areas, there were no properties available to rent in any category within standard or discretionary Rent Supplement/Housing Assistance Payment HAP limits and there were no properties to rent for a single person within the standard limits in any of the 16 locations.

“The results of the study once again highlight how single people are at a distinct disadvantage when it comes to securing a home to rent. The government’s dependence on private rented sector subsidised accommodation results in people being pushed into homelessness.

“Increasing the supply of real social housing units is the only way to provide secure housing and at the same time relieve pressure on the private rented sector.

“The over dependence on HAP is not only bad for the tenant it is also poor value for money for the exchequer. The rising costs of all rent subsidies, including HAP rent supplement, RAS and long-term leases will cost the taxpayer in excess of €1 billion in 2021.

“We need to see a significant increase in the real social housing targets in the Minister’s long-awaited Housing for All plan. This must be accompanied by a real plan for the private rented sector including a three year ban on rent increases and substantial investment in cost rental homes. 

“The Minister for Housing must also commission a short, time limited review of all rental subsidies including HAP by the Housing Agency.”

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

Transparency & accountability crucial to restore confidence at University of Limerick – @QuinlivanTD

Teachta Quinlivan's comments come following reports the Garda Economic Crime Bureau is examining issues relating to a controversial housing deal at UL.

It is essential that a State apology is now made to the families of the Stardust tragedy.

@MaryLouMcDonald has said that the apology must address the failures of governments, not just 43 years ago in the aftermath of this tragedy, but every day since then.

#JFT48

Following a meeting with the families of the Stardust tragedy this morning, @MaryLouMcDonald has said that "a full state apology to the families must be made now, and it must address the systematic failure over 43 years".

MORE: https://vote.sinnfein.ie/a-full-state-apology-to-stardust-families-must-address-systematic-failure-over-43-years-mary-lou-mcdonald/

ICOB in danger of being becoming another failed government business support scheme – @loreillysf

“It's essential that the May 1st deadline for registrations is extended, and that government & local authorities engage with SME's to encourage take-up."

Load More