The Strangford MLA said: “Private renters in Northern Ireland are continuously having their security eroded. This is due to a combination of factors, including skyrocketing rent increases that outpace inflation, no-fault evictions, and a shortage of available rentals caused by the rise in short-term holiday lets.

“These challenges aren’t new, and for too many private renters in Northern Ireland, life is defined by a constant fight to keep a roof over their head.

“One of the most pressing issues facing tenants today is the ability of landlords to evict them without cause. This frequently leads to private renters facing eviction after they request basic repairs for their properties. As a result, renters become afraid to assert their legal rights and end up living in unsuitable conditions.

“Despite being in office for over a year, the Communities Minister has made no tangible progress in addressing these issues, and this urgently needs to change.

“Residents in the private rented sector in Northern Ireland deserve the same protections and security that renters in other regions enjoy. That is why Alliance launched its proposals 'A New Deal for Renters', advocating for an affordable rent 'triple lock.' This would include limits on rent increases, an annual review of the local housing allowance, and a ban on excessive rent hikes during tenancies. Additionally, we want to see an end to no-fault evictions.

“We need action from the Communities Minister and his department to implement these changes that will protect the security of tenants. Only then can we alleviate the daily struggles faced by many private renters across Northern Ireland.”