Balance in view on rent reform (2)

Żminijietna - Voice of the Left welcomes the government's rent reform proposals, which are a historic compromise. But it should be emphasised that all types of families should benefit from the proposals, including those in cohabitation, single parents and same-sex couples.

We believe that the government's proposals do justice to the owners of properties rented before the 1995 liberalisation, yet not at the expense of people living in them.

We welcome the fact that the children of those living in such properties who earn less than €25,000 will be able to keep living in them. This will safeguard the security of such persons. We also welcome the proposal to exempt political and social organisations such as NGOs and voluntary organisations from this reform. Such organisations are giving a social contribution to society, which cannot be subject to the market.

We believe that the rent reform should be accompanied by a reform in social housing policies so that the government can help those truly in need, including first-time buyers and people reaching pensionable age.