Landlords ‘can’t use’ deposits for water bills

Environment Minister Alan Kelly has warned that property owners cannot withhold tenants’ deposits or deduct parts of them because of disputes or concerns about water bills being left unpaid.

Mr Kelly made the comments as the Coalition last night passed legislation to compel landlords to pass on tenant details to Irish Water and restrict the selling of properties if bills remain unpaid.

TDs opposed to charges claimed the laws were being rammed through the Dáil, that it was a parliamentary “sham” and that further legislation to be debated today will allow Irish Water raid people’s welfare or wages.