Dear Sir, – It is a regular occurrence to have headlines dominated by the dire state of housing and the scarcity of affordable rents. According to a recent survey by the Residential Tenancies Board, the matter only appears to be worsening, signified by escalating rents and a dwindling number of new tenancies. Some governmental measures, including the ‘rent a room scheme’ that allows homeowners to lease a room and enjoy a tax-free income up to €14,000, are proving beneficial. However, the tax incentive does not extend to those providing a ‘full house’ for an annual or lesser rent of €14,000, who are potentially subjected to a 50 per cent tax. Bringing in a tax exemption for rental properties valued under a specific figure could bring about a dramatic reduction in rents. Judicious solutions are often the most effective – why would a private landlord demand an extravagant rent of €2,000 each month and adhere to paying half as tax when a tax exemption awaits properties valued under €1,400 per month? – Truly yours, BRIAN LUBE, Kilcock, Co Meath.
Dear Sir, – As Kay Chalmers pointed out in her letter (Letters, May 3rd), “The housing problem seems to be increasingly defined by a generational divide”. I would like to suggest that the framing of the housing crisis appears to be trending further towards a divide between landlords and tenants. It is unfortunate that some political factions choose to cast this as the ultimate class struggle when it’s far from being the case. The essence of the matter lies in mutual respect and empathy – a mutually beneficial symbiosis between a good landlord and a good tenant. It is regrettable that legislation has marred this relationship, assigning an almost adversarial label to both parties. Both landlords and tenants require safeguards within a mature and practical regulatory framework that engages landlords in the housing equation, while assuring protection and stability for tenants. – Truly yours, GEOFF SCARGILL, Bray, Co Wicklow.