The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Mr. Phil Hogan T.D., has announced five appointments to the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB), including the appointment of Ms. Catriona Walsh, Partner, and Ensor O'Connor Solicitors, as Chairperson.

The Board is an independent statutory agency established in 2004 under the Residential Tenancies Act and its main functions are:

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• The resolution of disputes between tenants and landlords

• The registration of tenancies in the private rented residential sector

• The provision of advice to the Minister in relation to the private rented residential sector

The Board members appointed by the Minister are:

• John Fitzgerald, property professional, member of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (I.P.A.V.)

• Noel Merrick, property professional, member of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (I.P.A.V.)

• Mr Paul Flood, Estates Manager with the Health Services Executive

• Ms Rhonda Donaghey, trade union official

(CD/H)