Simon Coveney hits back at Fianna Fáil criticism over handling of rent crisis

Housing Minister Simon Coveney has rebuffed criticisms from Fianna Fáil’s Barry Cowen about the sharp rises in rent prices.

Mr Cowen was scathing in his analysis of Mr Coveney’s performance as minister in terms of the housing crisis, claiming the Government has compulsory purchase powers as its disposal which should be “used extensively” and immediately.

Mr Coveney hit back by saying Mr Cowen does not seem to understand how matters like this get sorted.