South Dublin Councillors Consider High Court Action Over 25% Rent Hike
South Dublin councillors are considering High Court action against a planned rent hike of up to 25%, effective July 1. Critics cite financial strain, but the executive claims funds are needed for maintenance. A motion to force consultation passed, but the executive states it won't lead to action, prompting a judicial review.
Councillors in South County Dublin are considering High Court action over the executive’s plan to increase rents by up to 25% starting July 1. This marks the first change to rent calculation in 30 years.
A February motion requiring consultation with tenants and unions before rent hikes was not upheld. Critics argue the increases are unfair given current financial strains and living conditions, while the executive states additional funds are needed for rising maintenance costs.
Sinn Féin, Social Democrats, People Before Profit, and some Independents held a special meeting to vote on an emergency motion to compel consultation. Chief Executive Colm Ward initially deemed the motion invalid but allowed the vote after Councillor Jess Spear (People Before Profit) indicated intent to seek judicial review. Ward stated that even if passed, the motion would not lead to executive action.
Spear confirmed plans to pursue a High Court judicial review, expressing confidence in a favorable outcome. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael councillors did not attend the meeting, which Spear called a «cowardly» tactic to prevent quorum. However, quorum was met with 15 councillors present, and the motion passed with all but one vote; Mayor Pamela Kearns voted against it. The rent increases are set to take effect on Wednesday, with amounts calculated based on income and household category.