'No fault eviction ban' needed in North

The North of Ireland needs a 'no-fault eviction ban', according to Derry City and Strabane District councillor, Emmet Doyle (Aontú). 

Cllr Doyle said a 'no-fault eviction ban' similar to the one the Irish Government is currently abandoning, was needed here as the number of people receiving eviction notices due to private landlords selling property was rising.

Cllr Doyle said: "Aontú moved a motion in the Dáil to protect the most vulnerable from the Irish Governments decision to lift the eviction ban in the 26 counties but it's clear that similar protections are now needed in the North.

"I am witnessing a surge in the number of tenants who are being given notices to quit because their landlord is selling the property, as are other elected representatives I've spoken to. 

"There are several thousand people on the waiting list for social housing in Derry as it is, some waiting years to be allocated a suitable property, the system has been crumbling under applicants for some time.

"Adding more and more people because landlords want to sell up will only add a further strain.  Many people who will not be able to wait for social housing will be forced to again private rent at rates that are likely higher than what they had previously been paying," said Cllr Doyle.

Cllr Doyle added: "We are in the middle of a cost of living crisis and I am seeing the number of families on this situation rising, with some having to stay in separate properties with friends or family for long periods.

"A no-fault eviction ban will stabilise tenancies for many thousands of people during this uncertain period and whilst there will be inconvenience for property owners, we have to all do what we can during this crisis to support each other.

"Avenues for eviction relating to blatant damage to property for example should still be available but those who live their lives in peace in a rented property should be able to avail of that protection we're suggesting."