The rent limit in Kerry under the HAP or Housing Assistance Payment Scheme is significantly lower than in neighbouring counties.
The issue was raised by councillor Maura Healy Rae at a recent meeting of Killarney Municipal District.
The Housing Assistance Programme is a form of social housing support for people who have a long-term housing need.
Under the scheme, local authorities pay landlords directly; the rent charged must be within the limits set down for each household type in each local authority’s area.
In Kerry, the maximum rate of rent for a house for a couple and three children is €575, in County Cork it’s €950, while in Limerick it’s €750.
Councillor Maura Healy Rae said families in Kerry are struggling to make ends meet and can’t cope.
She called on the Education Minister Norma Foley to arrange a deputation from Killarney MD on the issue.
