Post-Christmas pinch sets helplines ringing
Threshold, the national housing agency, says calls to its centre have increased sharply in recent days with the arrival of a cold snap.
From December to the end of January, between 1,500 and 2,000 people will have called its helpline with concerns ranging from worries over inadequate heating systems and problems with landlords addressing them to tenants facing arrears after the festive period.
Other concerns have included substandard accommodation and landlords retaining deposits.
“In the run-up to Christmas, it’s busy, then it quietens down. But in January, we usually get a flurry of calls,” said Threshold director, Bob Jordan.
“Some have been about the cold spell and landlords not keeping up with repairs.”
Tenants two months behind with their rent have also contacted the helpline (01 6786096).
“We can try and negotiate with the landlord and arrange a repayment schedule, if people contact us. Over the next two weeks, we will be getting a lot more calls. At this time of year things get a lot tighter for people,” added Mr Jordan.
Meanwhile, Minister for Social and Family Affairs Martin Cullen will today appeal to those facing financial crises to come forward for help.
Those crippled by debt after the holidays are being encouraged to contact the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS). The service runs 65 centres nationwide, offering face-to-face advice and access to its helpline (1890 283438).
Mr Cullen will today visit MABS’s Lombard Street centre, Dublin.
More than 60% of the people who contact MABS are on a low income.
MABS has been given €18 million to help people with money management difficulties in 2008.
Separately, a booklet launched yesterday offers advice to the estimated 300,000 Irish people who borrow from money-lenders or “loan sharks” each year.
The Free Legal Advice Centres (FLAC), which published the information booklet said moneylenders are an expensive option. “Borrowers should be very clear about their rights, to ensure that moneylenders do not over step the legal limits,” said director general Noeline Blackwell.
FLAC’s researcher on consumer credit law, Paul Joyce, said: “Although there may be other affordable sources of credit available, many borrowers see moneylending as convenient, as they can often make repayments on the doorstep and few questions are asked about their employment or credit status.”
www.threshold.ie
www.mabs.ie
www.flac.ie
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