Minister for Housing James Browne has stated that “any landlord in Wexford who breaks the rules will not get away with it” following the service of eviction notices to 36 households in the Hazelwood Estate in Bridgetown, Co Wexford.
Widespread Evictions Prompt Investigation
The notices of termination were issued to tenants last Friday, just prior to the implementation of new rental rules on Sunday, March 1st. Approximately 100 people, including children, are affected, with some residents instructed to vacate their homes as early as May and others by August.
Under the new regulations, landlords are limited to rent increases of 2 per cent annually, or the rate of inflation. However, the rules also allow landlords to reset rent to market rate for new tenancies. Tenancies beginning after Sunday will be required to last a minimum of six years and will be subject to more stringent eviction grounds.
Ministerial Response and RTB Involvement
Minister Browne expressed his concern regarding the situation, stating, “I won’t stand for it.” He confirmed he has been in direct contact with the head of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), and the National Head of Disputes is traveling to Wexford to meet with residents and investigate the matter. The Minister emphasized that existing tenants have rights and landlords have responsibilities under current legislation.
Minister Browne highlighted that landlords are prohibited from resetting rent for new tenancies if a previous tenancy ended via a ‘no-fault eviction’ within the last two years, even in cases of property sale. He is closely monitoring the situation and suspects potential breaches of current rules.
Local Support and Legal Challenges
Wexford County Council held an emergency information meeting on Monday afternoon to address the concerns of affected residents. Local Fianna Fáil councillor Lisa McDonald, a solicitor, is providing pro bono legal representation, and Councillors Aoife Rose O’Brien and Labour TD George Lawlor are also gathering information. McDonald stated the landlord has not offered tenants the opportunity to purchase their properties and believes the evictions may be in breach of the Tyrrelstown Agreement within the Residential Tenancies Act.
The RTB has acknowledged the case and is providing information to tenants regarding their rights and the dispute resolution process. The RTB is also monitoring Notices of Termination issued during the transition period for the new rental rules, and will contact landlords who have served 10 or more notices in the same development within a six-month period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What action is the Minister for Housing taking?
Minister James Browne has said he will investigate the evictions and has contacted the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). He stated, “any landlord in Wexford who breaks the rules will not get away with it.”
How many households are affected by the eviction notices?
36 households in the Hazelwood Estate in Bridgetown, Co Wexford, received notices of termination.
What is the Tyrrelstown Agreement?
The Tyrrelstown Agreement is part of the Residential Tenancies Act and appears to be relevant to the legality of these evictions, according to Councillor Lisa McDonald.
What further steps will be taken to ensure fair treatment for the affected tenants?
