The Taoiseach has cautioned against further rent controls, saying they could increase the number of ‘black market’ landlords. Mr Varadkar was accused of being “out of touch” with families and individuals struggling to pay rents which have surpassed Celtic Tiger levels. Opposition parties, as well as housing charities, said the figures show rent pressure zones are not working. “Rent pressure zones cannot work without proper monitoring and enforcement,” she said. Mr Martin criticised Mr Varadkar, who said he would have to “remind” himself of the report’s recommendations.

Source: Irish Examiner February 14, 2018 00:02 UTC