LIMERICK Sinn Féin TD Maurice Quinlivan has called on local TDs to explain why they voted down measures to support renters.
A package of measures was brought before the Dáil by Sinn Féin recently aiming to give renters a break from spiralling costs.
However, this was voted down by TDs from Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and the Green Party.
Speaking after the defeat of the motion, Limerick’s Maurice Quinlivan said that the Government was “abandoning” renters.
“The Dáil voted on Sinn Féin’s plan to ensure renters get a much-needed break from sky high rents. The plan included cutting rents and freezing them, as well as putting a month’s rent back in renters’ pockets.”
“It also empowered the Government to use emergency planning and procurement powers, combined with new building technologies and vacant homes, to provide an additional stream of public housing to reduce the numbers of people in emergency accommodation.”
“This would have made a real difference to renters in Limerick. In Limerick the cost of renting has increased by €400 since last year and a browse on property websites shows virtually no properties available to rent,” Deputy Quinlivan said.
“Shockingly, local TDs Willie O’Dea, Brian Leddin, and Kieran O’Donnell voted against the package of measures. This will come as a devastating blow to renters in Limerick who are struggling to keep up with spiralling costs.”
“Renters in Limerick deserve answers from their TDs about why they voted against providing this much-needed support. These TDs must come forward and explain to constituents why they have voted in this appalling way,” he concluded.
