The Irish Government is considering raising fines for landlords who breach eviction regulations, with Housing Minister James Browne seeking advice from the Attorney General on the matter.

Mr. Browne stated that fines should be substantial and higher, but there are limitations to how much they can be increased before involving the courts.

He also mentioned the possibility of implementing a rents register to enhance transparency in rental charges.

The new package of rent and tenancy reforms will see existing controls extended nationwide, capping rent increases at 2% per year in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs).

Existing tenancies will be subject to a 2% cap or inflation rate, whichever is lower, while new developments will have rent increases capped by inflation.

New tenancies from March 1, 2026, will be set at market value, offering minimum six-year rolling tenancies.

Large landlords with four or more tenancies will be prohibited from no-fault evictions for tenancies starting from the same date.

However, opposition parties have expressed concerns about the new proposals, warning that the ban on no-fault evictions will not apply to at least half of all tenancies.

Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne cautioned that the changes could lead to higher rental costs and more evictions.

Labour's housing spokesperson, Conor Sheehan, criticized the loopholes in the eviction ban, stating that renters have been left vulnerable.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald predicted that students would be among the most affected by the reforms, with rent resets every six years posing a challenge for renters.

The Taoiseach defended the reforms, emphasizing the need to incentivize new investment and protect tenants.

Despite the opposition's concerns, the Government believes that the new measures will strengthen tenants' rights and provide stability in the rental market.