Wexford Eviction Crisis: Minister Investigates Notices Served to Dozens of Families

Dozens of families in the Hazelwood estate in Bridgetown, County Wexford, Ireland, have received eviction notices, prompting an investigation by Minister for Housing James Browne. The evictions come just before new rental rules designed to offer tenants greater protection came into effect on Sunday, raising concerns about landlords attempting to circumvent the legislation.

Eviction Notices Issued

On Friday, 36 households in the Hazelwood estate were served with notices of termination of tenancy . This means these tenants will not benefit from the increased protections outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 2026.

Minister’s Response and Investigation

Minister for Housing James Browne, who represents the area, stated he will “investigate what’s happening” following the widespread evictions . He dismissed claims that the evictions were a direct reaction to the new rental rules as “misinformation.”

Browne has spoken directly with the head of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), and the National Head of Disputes is traveling to the estate to meet with residents and investigate the situation .

New Rental Rules and Tenant Rights

The Residential Tenancies Act 2026, which came into effect on Sunday, introduces several changes aimed at protecting tenants. These include capping rent increases at 2% annually or the rate of inflation, a minimum tenancy duration of six years for new tenancies, and more stringent grounds for eviction. However, these rules apply to new tenancies.

Minister Browne emphasized that existing tenants retain rights under existing legislation, stating that landlords cannot reset rent for new tenancies if the previous tenancy ended via a ‘no-fault eviction’ within the last two years, even if the property has been sold .

Community Impact

The evictions have caused significant distress among residents of the Hazelwood estate. Ann Marie Lamb, a single mother, highlighted the impact on families and children within the community . Local TDs have also criticized Minister Browne, noting the evictions are occurring in his own constituency .

The situation remains fluid as the RTB investigation unfolds, and Minister Browne has pledged to ensure tenants’ rights are fully applied.