Enda Kenny denies row about controlling rents crisis

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has denied there is a row between Environment Minister Alan Kelly and Finance Minister Michael Noonan over controlling rents, but admitted the Government faces a “serious challenge” trying to solve the housing crisis.

Mr Kenny three times refused to address queries about the accusations being fired out by Mr Kelly in recent days, as disagreement escalates over the issue of ‘rent certainty’.

Despite rising rates for tenants and new strict mortgage deposit rules, the Government remains divided on whether controls should be applied to rents.

Mr Kenny said yesterday that Mr Kelly was doing good work but that solving the housing crisis was a “serious challenge” for the Coalition.