Taoiseach blasts back in landlord and tenant row

Varadkar’s defence of end to eviction ban | Policy ‘choice’ is slammed by Sinn Fein leader

- LOUISE BURNE

TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has said a “false argument” is being made that there is a “conflict” between the rights of landlords and their tenants. 

He argued that the “demonisation of landlords” in recent years has led to higher rents and fewer properties in the rental market.

Hours later a fiery argument erupted between Mr Varadkar and Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald in the Dail.

It came after the Government announced the eviction ban would be lifted from March 31.

The decision was primarily driven by concern that keeping the ban in place would drive more landlords from the market.

This has led to criticism the Government has favoured the rights of landlords over tenants.

The Taoiseach dismissed this argument, warning that landlords and tenants depended on each other.