The Attorney General gave advice on housing without declaring in writing that he was a landlord

The Attorney General did not follow protocol in writing to the Taoiseach saying he is a landlord in giving advice that a ban on evictions and rent increases would be open to constitutional challenge.

Last month, the moratorium that was introduced by the pandemic was replaced by a system based on individual needs.

Tenants in financial distress can apply to the Residential Leasing Board for an exemption from the rent increase or eviction.

Sinn Féin’s Housing Spokesperson is Eoin O’Broin; says it is concerning that Attorney General Paul Gallagher failed to inform Micheal Martin of a potential conflict of interest.

“There is a clear legal requirement to submit a written statement to the government when a conflict or potential conflict of interest arises.”

“There is no doubt that the attorney general, who is a landlord, and advises on rent assignments and evictions has a conflict of interest. The government must explain why the letter of the Ethics Law was not followed in this case.”