Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that, regardless of the restrictions that may be imposed this evening by the Government, evictions should once again be banned as the existing public health guidelines and difficulties presented by COVID, both socially and economically, make it almost impossible to relocate at the current time.

Teachta Crowe said:

“Between the economic hardship and physical restraints of social distancing and limiting close contact, the option of moving rental accommodation is almost an impossibility for individuals and families.

“How can applicants view new rental accommodation safely or afford a deposit when they may be on reduced hours or had their PUP cut? They can’t. It’s simply not an option for most people.

“If we are being told by Government that it is our responsibility to reduce social contacts and not to leave home for unnecessary journeys, then they need to introduce a moratorium on home evictions. That is the only fair and appropriate way to move forward.

“Rent increases also need to addressed and frozen. If the Government are happy to slash PUP and other supports, then they cannot allow this added financial burden fall on vulnerable workers and their families.

“This is the bare minimum they should be considering doing to support struggling families and individuals in these unprecedented times.”