Green Party representative for Dún Laoghaire, Ossian Smyth has stated that housing has become a main concern across the ward of Dún Laoghaire.

She said: "The Council should be doing more to tackle the new Dublin housing crisis. Instead, they are sitting back and washing their hands of any responsibility.

"Tenants and homeowners are stopping me on the street because they are so concerned at the state of the Dublin property market. Tenants are in fear that without regulation, they will face sharp increases in rents and no security of tenure, with very little alternative available. Owner-occupiers are also worried that without any regulation of the property market, we are slipping back into a property boom-and-bust scenario.

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"The number of families living in rented accommodation doubled in Dún Laoghaire between census 2006 and 2011. The Council are responsible for enforcing standards in rental accommodation, and ensuring that building energy ratings are provided for rentals, but this rarely happens, leaving tenants to negotiate as best they can with their landlord.

"Long leases would suit landlords and tenants alike, yet the laws promote short notice periods on either side.

"People are crying out for housing suitable for families - homes that provide security and warmth, whether rented or owned."

(CD/MH)