Councillor says "no consequences" for refusal to pay social housing rent

Robert Nash, Fine Gael councillor for Dundalk South told Louth County Council, that those who refuse to pay rent to the council face "no consequences". 

Louth County Council are currently owed over €4 million in rental arrears, up over €500,000 in the last year. 

Speaking to Louth Live after the meeting, Cllr Nash stressed his issue is not with those who fall into rent arrears, but those who refuse to pay and engage with Louth County Council. 

"As a working man with 5 children, I fully understand in the present climate that the cost-of-living crisis is putting a huge pressure on all households."

"My issue is with the people who just won't pay and won't engage with Louth County Council and are just basically flouting the rules," he said. 

He added that is "not fair on the thousands of people currently on the housing list, who would gladly pay for a roof over their heads."

Cllr Nash said the €4 million owed in rent arrears would "go a long way" in solving several issues in housing. 

He said there was "public outcry" over the €1.3 million debt occurred from hosting the Drogheda Fleadh, but said "rising rent arrears doesn't seam to get the same traction." 

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Addressing the monthly meeting of Louth County Council, Cllr Nash said the system is in need of "drastic action", and called for the council to engage with other local authorities on how they deal with the issue.

In response, Ger Murphy, Director of Services in Louth County Council, said "there are a range of issues, but we are talking to other local authorities." 

"We do take significant action on a number of accounts, including those who won't pay, and we can take stronger action, right down to a possession order," he said. 

He added, the council may look at rent reviews to address the situation, but warned it will likely stay on the same trajectory before a reduction in rent arrears can be seen. 

According to Cllr Nash, there are 1027 tenants that are in arrears greater than 12 weeks, amounting to over €3.7 million.