The government has lifted a ban on evictions and many will be thrown on the streets between now and June. It is a disgraceful move that shows just how powerful the landlord lobby is.
For weeks they have spread stories about people returning from far-away places and needing to get back into the homes they rented out.
But they have supplied no figures for these ‘hard cases’ and do not shed any tears for those who will be thrown out on the streets with nowhere to go.
Nearly 12,000 people in Ireland are currently designated as homeless. The situation is so bad that even homeless hostels are full.
Nobody should be fooled by the rhetoric that refugees are to blame. This government has caused the housing crisis by refusing to build social housing.
People Before Profit brought in a bill to extend the eviction ban. In a surprise move, it got past the second stage.
But now the government is maneuvering to prevent a vote before the eviction ban runs out. This is totally undemocratic but is designed as a device to give political cover to TDs who want the ban removed.
If the Dáil will not act to stop homelessness, then people themselves should show solidarity with their neighbours in resisting eviction.
If you know of anyone facing eviction get in touch with People Before Profit. We will work with others to organise solidarity networks to resist. There is a long history of resisting eviction in Ireland. Let’s remember it – and show solidarity.
