Tánaiste rules out 'knee-jerk' response to rental crisis, saying Sinn Féin is playing politics

The Tánaiste argued that figures for January this year indicated the government has “turned the corner in respect of house building”, particularly in terms of first-time buyers.

Micheál Martin meeting Hilary Clinton in New York today. Photo: Department of Foreign Affairs

Tánaiste Micheál Martin has poured cold water on the introduction of pre-budget tax breaks for landlords, saying there can’t be a “knee-jerk” reaction and insisting the government has turned the corner on house building.

His comments come as reports suggested the Coalition was considering pre-budget tax measures for the rental sector following ongoing criticism over the lifting of the eviction ban and fears of an exodus of landlords from the market, further hindering supply.