Tenants facing rents over €2000 a month for properties ‘not worth it’ says Louth councillor
The soaring cost of private rents is “hurting” a generation of young people facing an unprecedented cost of living crisis, Louth councillors heard at their latest meeting.
Cllr. Kevin Meenan revealed he had been contacted by many constituents who spoke of the challenges sourcing affordable accommodation in Dundalk.
“They are facing rents of up to €2000 a month.. and some of these house are not even worth half that,” he told the May meeting of Louth County Council.
He added: “The scale of what people are expected to pay for rent is massive. Some of these houses are just not worth it, it is beyond ridiculous.”
The latest figures from Daft.ie found the average monthly rent in Louth is now: €1,466 for a one-bedroom apartment; €2,015 for a two-bedroom apartment; €2,476 for a three-bedroom apartment; €2,129 for a two-bedroom house; €2,642 for a three-bedroom house and €3,095 for a four-bedroom house.
Speaking at the meeting Ger Murphy, Director of Service at Louth County Council, acknowledged the rising cost of private rental accommodation.
“The rents are high, that is the reality at the moment unfortunately. People are finding it difficult to find affordable homes to rent.”
He added that the council “will do our best to help” through the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) team.
“We have a very strong, committed team there who are doing their best to find people suitable accommodation. We will keep working with people as best we can during the current climate.”