Government urged to tackle upward only rent reviews

They say the lack of action is strangling the commercial sector and devastating high streets.

The group wants the Government to accept a Bill, tabled by Independent Senator Fergal Quinn, which has been passed by the Seanad, which would have the effect of ending upward-only rents.

A spokesperson for the group said: “Quite simply, Senator Quinn’s legislation should be enacted by the Dail and by all means let it be referred by the President to the Supreme Court to test its Constitutionality.

This at least would end once and for all this blanket ban on changing what is an unjust law under the guise of legal advice.”

The spokesperson said: “The Government might think this problem has gone away but it hasn't. Many small businesses and retailers are still struggling to cope with high rents which, when combined with low levels of consumer spending, puts their very survival on the line.

“For many small businesses it’s too late; they've already had to close down and many more are on the brink of doing so.

“Upward only rent reviews don't affect individual shops only as there is the knock-on effect when shops close. It's devastating entire streets, city and town centres as well as commercial areas. Businesses are struggling because high rents are putting shops under pressure.

“There's been a recent boost in consumer spend, with positive news on retail sales and employment, but we need the right conditions to achieve a sustainable recovery. High rents which can only go up costs jobs and impedes growth.”

“We are demanding today that the Government honours its commitment in the Programme for Government and enact legislation to deal with the legacy issue of upward only rent reviews.

“We have Senator Quinn’s Bill which is a means of rectifying the problem. It needs to be enacted without further delay.”