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Over 900 properties in Wexford now under accommodation payment scheme

Over 900 properties in Wexford now under accommodation payment scheme

Wicklow Wexford TD, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, has said that the number is a significant rise in the number of properties being awarded payments under the scheme for Ukrainians in County Wexford.
Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin said it is very concerning at a time of rising rents and an ongoing housing crisis. The Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) is a tax-free monthly financial contribution of €600 available to landlords who provide housing for people who arrived in Ireland under the EU Temporary Protection Directive.
'There are now 941 properties in receipt of payments under the ARP in County Wexford. We have the 7th highest figure in the state - doubling that of neighbouring Co. Wicklow; almost doubling Co. Carlow and more than three times that of Co. Kilkenny.
'This is an extremely significant rise when you consider the small number of properties that are available to rent in Wexford at present' said Deputy Ó Súilleabháin.
Deputy Ó Súilleabháin further said the scheme has had negative impacts on those who are trying to secure housing. 'The failure of the government to recognise the impact of this scheme on the private rental sector is outrageous, particularly given soaring rents and the fact that we are in the middle of such a severe housing crisis.
The figures revealed in a Parliamentary question to Sinn Féin show an increase in every county, and an overall rise of 3,125, in the number of properties being awarded ARP payments between January and July of this year.
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