TDs must explain why they voted down much-needed solutions - Guirke
Sinn Féin for Meath West Johnny Guirke has demanded that local TDs explain why they voted down proposals to support renters.
Last night in the Dáil, TDs voted on a package of measures which Deputy Guirke says "would have ensured renters had a break from sky-high costs".
TDs in Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Green Party voted against the proposals.
Speaking this morning, Deputy Guirke said:
“Last night, 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.
“This would have made a real difference to renters in Meath West.
“Shockingly, local TDs in Meath West from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael voted against the package of measures. This will come as a devastating blow to renters in Meath West who are struggling to keep up with spiralling costs.
“Renters in Meath and Westmeath 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 in Meath West can’t wait. After 12 years of a Fine Gael government, propped up by Fianna Fáil for seven years and now propped up by the Greens, people on ordinary incomes in Meath West 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 rooms 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.
“Sinn Féin has brought forward proposals to finally get to grips with the housing crisis and stand up for renters in Meath West. A Sinn Féin government would ensure this change is delivered."