Darragh O'Brien

The Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act 2020 prohibits rent increases and evictions during the “emergency period”, which has now been extended until 1 August 2020.

Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien said: “Following detailed discussions with the Attorney General and his office I have been advised that the need to restrict the movement of persons is increasingly at variance with the relaxations provided for in the roadmap for reopening society and business.

“I have obviously taken this advice on board and recommended a short extension under the existing emergency legislation to afford me the time to bring forward robust legislation that will provide real protection to tenants and property owners alike.”

He added: “The rent freeze and eviction moratorium were brought in under emergency legislation targeting all tenancies regardless of individual tenants’ circumstances.

“It is well known that they could not be extended indefinitely so it is important we have strong legislation, which combines targeting those who are most vulnerable with longer term measures to address rent arrears, in place prior to the Dáil recess. This legislation will be brought to cabinet on Thursday.”