Housing Minister Peter Tinley has warned that antisocial public housing tenants should not feel safe from eviction if they damage property or use public housing for illegal purposes – despite the announcement of an extension to the ‘eviction moratorium’ last week.
The eviction moratorium implemented at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak was designed to help those facing financial hardship due to the pandemic and address issues such as an inability to pay rent or bills.
It was due to expire at the end of this month but has now been extended to March 28, 2021.
The Department of Communities has a three strikes policy that remains in place to manage problem tenants.
As stated by Housing Minister Peter Tinley:
“The vast majority of public housing tenants do the right thing. The eviction moratorium was designed to help those suffering financial hardship as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was not intended to provide a safe haven for those few who exhibit unacceptable and antisocial behaviour.
“If you think you can deal drugs from public housing, or threaten and attack your neighbours, and be protected from eviction, think again. Taxpayer funded housing is a privilege.
“The McGowan Government and the Department of Communities has a very clear three-strike policy that will be used against problem tenants.”
