Findings show that majority of tenants are renting through necessity, not choice
The latest Tenant Sentiment report from Threshold highlights the harsh realities of renting in Ireland today, according to Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan.
Deputy O’Callaghan, who is the party’s spokesperson on housing, said:
“The findings of today’s Threshold report are predictably grim. While renting certainly suits some people, the results show that most of those in the private rented sector do not want to be there and would much prefer to have the security of a long-term home, either through home ownership or a secure social housing tenancy.
“The report found that only 17 per cent of people are renting by choice, while just 48 per cent felt secure in their home.
“Most tenants are trapped in an exorbitantly expensive and dysfunctional rental market that makes it next to impossible to save up for a deposit. Thanks to the failed housing policies of this and successive governments, the dream of owning a place of your own has become increasingly out of reach.
“This was borne out in the 2022 Census which showed home ownership rates are at their lowest level in more than 50 years.
“The Government should be using its forecasted budget surplus to build thousands of affordable purchase homes under the Ó Cualann Cohousing Alliance model. By building on a not-for-profit basis, the alliance has been delivering new three-bedroom homes in Dublin for €250,000.
“We need to take radical steps that will give hope to a generation caught in the rental trap.”
June 21, 2023