Dáil to debate Sinn Féin motion on putting right to housing in Constitution

A Sinn Féin private members motion, seeking a referendum to put the right to housing into the Constitution, looks set to be defeated tomorrow.

Last night the party's spokesperson on housing, Eoin Ó Broin, introduced the proposal for the 35th Amendment, which would see the right to adequate, appropriate, secure, safe and affordable housing added.

Deputy Ó Broin said Rent Pressure Zones are not working with most people not earning enough to afford average rent prices in many areas.

However, Fianna Fáil have indicated they will not support the motion because it would cost too much to hold a referendum.

Eoin Ó Broin said while the vote may not pass, it does have widespread support outside Dáil:

He told the Dáil: "Homeless organisations, housing associations, grassroots groups, citizens and residents all calling on this chamber to act, to take an important step towards ending the Fine Gael housing crisis.

"To provide the people with an important tool to vindicate their right to appropriate, secure and affordable homes."