Local TDs must explain to renters why they voted down much-needed solutions

TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that local TDs explain why they voted down proposals to support renters. Last week in the Dáil, TDs from Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and the Green party voted against a package of measures put forward by Sinn Féin which would have ensured renters had a break from sky-high costs.
 
Speaking this morning, Teachta Crowe said “After 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 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. “Shockingly, the Government voted against the package of measures. This will come as a devastating blow to renters in who are struggling to keep up with spiralling costs.
 
“Renters 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. “It is disgraceful that TDs are now going off for their summer break, without putting a plan in place to support renters.
 
“Renters cannot wait. After 12 years of a Fine Gael government, propped up by Fianna Fáil for 7 years and now propped up by the Greens, people on ordinary incomes cannot find an affordable place to rent or buy. “Rents continue to spiral out of control and every month the record for the number of men, women and children in homelessness is broken.
 
“The impact of this is that people are struggling to afford crippling rents, they’re stuck in their families’ box room and they’re giving up all hope of ever owning their own homes. “It’s time for change. Renters need a break. It is time for a government that is genuinely committed to tackling these issues.