The national housing charity Threshold has welcomed the Government’s decision to introduce a temporary moratorium on evictions, effective from November to March 2023. CEO of Threshold, John-Mark McCafferty commented on the news today, stating:
“Unfortunately, a moratorium on evictions is necessary as the number of people being evicted from their homes with no options of alternative accommodation has increased hugely. We have seen a doubling of termination notices this year – over 460 on average per month – and there is limited emergency accommodation for these private tenants who find themselves homeless.
“We understand that the ban will not apply to tenants who engage in anti-social behaviour and those who wilfully do not pay their rent. However, given the increasing cost-of-living crisis and rising energy bills, it is likely that an increased number of tenants will fall into rent arrears over the coming months, and it is necessary to ensure additional supports are put in place to help tenants in paying their rent to their landlord. Those renters with arrears, who are supported by Threshold, do everything they can to ensure the rent is paid.“
Threshold have proposed a Rent Arrears Fund to assist those struggling with debts. It is also crucial that measures are taken to rapidly increase the availability of affordable and secure homes. Threshold has recommended that landlords who sell property be able to avail of reduced Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when they sell to a Local Authority or Approved Housing Body with a tenant in situ – resulting in a retention of supply in the market and continued security for tenants. In addition, measures to return homes to use, for example vacant properties and those on the short-term market, must be taken without delay while an eviction ban is in place.
Threshold’s helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am- 9pm at 1800 454 454, with webchat at www.threshold.ie/get-help for any renter in need of advice or support.
