Two Waterford TDs clash over ‘purposefully misleading’ comments on rent reforms

Two Waterford TDs have clashed over the issue of rent reforms in recent days.

Fine Gael TD and Minister of State John Cummins has hit back at Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness for comments made which he believes were “purposefully misleading”.

In a statement, Deputy McGuinness called for a wide range of measures to be introduced for renters in Ireland, including a total rent freeze.

He said that the Government’s housing plan was “failing renters” and claimed that eviction notices in Waterford had “skyrocketed”.

A spokesperson for Minister Cummins has since responded to those comments, following a request for comment from Waterford Live.

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The spokesperson said: “Deputy McGuinness’ comments are purposely misleading regarding rent reform measures and supports for SME builders.

“Earlier this year, the Government took the decision to strengthen protections for renters and brought the country into a Rent Pressure Zone, meaning rent increase caps of 2% per annum are in effect across the entire country.

“The rent reforms applicable from March 2026 will apply to new tenancies only. Current tenancies are not impacted.”

The spokesperson accused the Sinn Féin TD of using “simplistic soundbites” to discuss measures that could have a huge impact on the housing market.

They stated: “Simplistic soundbites like ‘we’ll freeze rents’ sound great but would actually lead to even more landlords leaving the market.

“Look what happened when the left-wing Berlin government announced such a measure to much fanfare a few years ago - the supply of rental properties reduced by 50% in 12 months before being struck down by the Supreme Court.

“What makes Deputy McGuinness believe that Ireland would be any different? Government will continue to support the delivery of Cost Rental units which over time will compete with market rents.”

A response was also provided to comments made by Deputy McGuinness regarding SME builders.

“In relation to SME builders, Deputy McGuinness must not have read the Government’s new Housing Plan which has been welcomed by industry representatives and stakeholders.

“It outlines many supports for SME builders, including increasing access to equity and an expansion of the Ready to Build scheme and Buy and Renew Scheme, amongst others which will directly benefit them.”

The spokesperson concluded by defending the work of Minister Cummins and the Department of Housing, particularly in Waterford.

They stated: “Minister Cummins and the Government is focused on the delivery of all homes – social, affordable, cost rental and private.

“In recent weeks, Minister Cummins opened over 100 affordable and 50 social homes in Waterford. This Government is facing the housing challenge head on providing record funding to ramp up delivery.

“Housing completions are up 13% on last year and we will continue to accelerate supply to ensure we are meeting the needs of our growing population.”