Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin TD has called on the Minister for Social Protection to provide clarity to renters in relation to accessing an emergency rent supplement payment if they are experiencing difficulties paying their rent due to Covid-19. With rents due this week the issue is now urgent.

Deputy Ó Broin said:

“For weeks, I have been calling on the Minister for Social Protection Regina Doherty to introduce an emergency Covid-19 rent supplement payment for renters who have lost their jobs.

“I have written to her again today asking her to confirm that her Department is working on such as scheme and urging her to announce it as a matter of urgency.

“This week, most people will have to pay their rent and I am getting dozens of queries from concerned renters as to how they are meet to meet these costs after losing work.

“What renters need now is reassurance and clarity from the Minister that accessing this payment is an option for those struggling with rental costs.

“If the Minister does not act to support renters now, then we will be facing a massive rent arrears debt crisis when the Covid-19 restrictions are lifted with terrible consequences for renters, the rental sector and the economy.”