Crackdown begins on ‘anti-social’ tenants

WATERFORD City Council says it simply won’t house anyone who has a record for anti-social behaviour, irrespective of their perceived right to have a roof over their head.

Persistent troublemakers are also banned from even being included on the council’s housing list under a “get tough on thugs” policy adopted by the local authority and approved by its members this week.

Council director of services Paddy Power says the city council is simply saying in its scheme of letting priorities that only those who do not have a record for anti-social behaviour will be considered for rehousing. It is now sending its letting priority to the Department of the Environment for approval. While some might claim they have a constitutional right to housing, Mr Power says the necessary legislation to back up the council is being drafted.