Threshold has implored the Government to reinstate the eviction ban as record numbers of adults and children could be facing homelessness as a result of the Government’s majority vote to retain plans to lift the eviction ban for rented properties, according to the charity.
Threshold CEO John-Mark McCafferty said that the organisation currently works with thousands of individuals with notices of termination, and the Coalition’s decision is likely to exacerbate the concerns – and situations – these renters find themselves in.
“Overall data from Threshold from November 1st to March 21st shows that Threshold advisors received queries from 1,853 renters who face eviction once the ban lifts. It is highly likely that this number will exceed 2,000 by the end of the month. The Government’s decision to end the ban at the end of the month is fuelling a hopeless outlook for renters in Ireland.
The ban on evictions was to provide a ‘breathing space’ for positive changes to be implemented and improvements in supply to take place. Unfortunately, we are yet to see the outcome of Government action in this respect. It is disheartening to hear of the Government speaking of measures for Budget 2024. This is six months away. Renters need improved support now.
Threshold along with a number of like-minded NGO’s recommended a number of solutions that would help to alleviate the crisis, such as expanding the ‘tenant in situ’ scheme to include renters who are within cost rental income limits, those who are at risk of homelessness and to make provisions for Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to manage homes in this scheme on a cost rental basis.”
He said that these measures will take time to implement, adding that Threshold is imploring the Government to reinstate the eviction ban until such measures are established and active, with sufficient preventative measures in place to protect tenants at risk of entering homelessness.