Dramatic drop in properties to rent in recent months

The number of properties available for rent in our towns and cities appears to have dropped by half in a matter of months.

A study by the Simon Communities of Ireland found a drop of 55% in properties for rent since May.

The ongoing research monitors the rental sector in 11 towns and cities nationally.

The "Locked Out" report found that 80% of properties for rent were out of reach of those receiving rental assistance payments.

However, Niamh Randall of Simon says that is actually an improvement, following an increase in rent supplement rates: "We think increasing the limits has made a change.

"However, with the current pressure on the housing market and the supply issues, this needs to be constantly under review and we need to be constantly adjusting the rates to ensure that we don't lock people out of the market."