Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow John Brady, Bray Councillor John Ward and Arklow Councillor Warren O’Toole have called on Wicklow County Council to pause the implementation of its new rent scheme and undertake an urgent assessment of its impact on tenants and families across the county.
The new scheme is due to take effect from the 3rd of October 2026 and Sinn Féin representatives said they have been contacted by a huge volume of constituents concerned about the impact of the changes, with many reporting significant increases in their weekly rent, at a time when households are already under considerable financial pressure.
Deputy John Brady said:
“A huge volume of constituents have been in touch with me after receiving letters this morning from Wicklow County Council.
“Many people’s rents have seen dramatic increases, despite the household income remaining static since the previous rent review.
“Some tenants are facing increases of more than 50%.
“Council tenants are already under huge financial pressure due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The cost of food, fuel, gas and electricity has all increased, placing enormous pressure on household budgets.
“Against that backdrop, it is deeply concerning that many families are now being asked to absorb significant rent increases, particularly where some tenants are already living in overcrowded, mouldy or damp conditions.
“Sinn Féin is calling for the implementation of these rent increases to be paused and for a proper assessment of their impact on tenants to take place.”
Councillor John Ward said:
“This represents a significant change for council tenants in Wicklow, and we need to understand exactly what this will mean for households across the county before these changes are allowed to take effect.
“The very short window between tenants receiving these letters and the new scheme coming into effect on the 3rd of October is also a major concern. For many families, receiving notice of a substantial rent increase with only a few weeks to prepare will come as a real shock.
“Families are already struggling with the cost of food, energy, fuel and other essentials. Household budgets are under immense pressure, and a significant increase in rent could push some tenants into serious financial difficulty.
“The council should be looking at ways to reduce pressure on tenants and provide stability, not introduce changes that could make it harder for families to make ends meet.
“We need a proper assessment of the impact of these changes, meaningful engagement with tenants and a review of the increases before they are allowed to proceed.”
Councillor Warren O’Toole said:
“This represents a major shock for many council tenants right across the county.
“Before these changes are implemented, the council needs to properly assess their impact on households, particularly those already struggling with the rising cost of food, fuel and energy.
“There is a clear need to recognise the financial pressure council tenants are under and to ensure that rent increases do not push families into financial hardship.
“We are calling on Wicklow County Council to pause the implementation of the new scheme, carry out a proper impact assessment and review the increases at the earliest possible opportunity.
“Sinn Féin will continue to support tenants and raise their concerns directly to the council.”