A number of residents in the Tallaght apartment block, Exchange Hall in Belgard Square were recently issued with termination notices indicating that they have 12 weeks to vacate the properties. Local South Dublin County Councillor, Charlie O’Connor commented, “The Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Bill came into force just over two years ago. A crucial aspect of this legislation is the ‘Tyrrelstown Amendment’ which was put in place to prevent a landlord from evicting more than ten tenancies at once. “Sadly in this particular instance notices of eviction were sent to the residents of nine properties in the block, just one short of being bound by this legislation. It is my view that this action therefore goes against the spirit of the laws previously passed to protect tenants. This also sets a worrying precedent for those living in a similar residence or apartment complex that is owned by an individual landlord.
“Each of the young hospital workers and families that are affected no doubt signed leases for the property in good faith and some have even been living in Exchange Hall more than 5 years. These tenants are now likely to encounter great difficulty in trying to find alternative, affordable accommodation in the greater South Dublin region given the demand that already exists. “It’s most plausible that the purpose of these notices is to ensure that the properties can be to put up on the market at a higher price of rent but I would plead with the landlord to avoid these unnecessary evictions. “I have written to the Chief Executive of SDCC to determine what supports can be put in place to protect the housing status of these tenants come eviction day,” concluded Cllr O’Connor.
