Pressure mounts to increase HAP rent limits for single tenants in Meath
Calls have been made to review Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) limits for single applicants in Co Meath amid concerns they no longer reflect the cost of renting.
The issue was raised in a motion by Aontú councillor Dave Boyne at the April meeting of Meath County Council.
Cllr Boyne called on the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to examine whether current HAP limits are adequate, particularly in relation to the cost of renting a single room in shared accommodation.
He highlighted concerns that existing limits may not align with market rents, making it more difficult for single applicants to secure accommodation in the private rental sector.
“We are all feeling the pressure with this current economic situation,” he said.
The motion was seconded by Independent councillor Noel French.
He said: “The HAP payment for this county is too low. They need to be higher, we are suffering because we are in close proximity to Dublin.”
In response, the council noted that the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently undertaking a review of HAP rent limits.
The review is aimed at ensuring there is sufficient support under the scheme to assist eligible households in accessing accommodation in the private rental market.
The department has indicated that the review process is expected to conclude before the end of the second quarter of 2026.
HAP is a replacement for Rent Supplement and assists those with a long-term housing need in paying for private rented accommodation.
Under the scheme, Meath County Council makes the full rent payment directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant. The tenant then pays a rent contribution to the council, based on their income and ability to pay.