The first step in creating certainty for both landlords and tenants in the private rental sector was announced today by the Minister for the Environment, Mr Cullen.
A new mediation service, the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB), will mediate in disputes between landlords and tenants. The PRTB is currently working on a non-statutory basis, but legislation to give it statutory status will be published early next year and is expected to be passed by the middle of 2003.
Minister Cullen said that the mediation initiative is the next phase of the Government's commitment to reform and develop the private rented sector.
"The Government established and accepted the recommendations of the Commission on the Private Rented Residential Sector and we have continued to build on this," he said.
He added that the service helps parties who find themselves in dispute to help themselves.
"Very many disputes can be settled amicably, where the parties are assisted in solving the problem. The service will be supportive, non-confrontational, confidential and speedy," said Mr Cullen.
The director of the PRTB, Mr Brian O'Neill, told ireland.comthat the board and the new legislation will provide greater security for both landlords and tenants.
"What essentially you have between tenant and landlord is a commercial contract, but, with a high level of emotional involvement. The new legislation will stabilise the sector and make landlords and tenants aware of their obligations towards each other," he said.
