Bridgetown, Co. Wexford – The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) has launched an investigation following the issuance of eviction notices to 36 households in the Hazelwood Estate, just days before new rental legislation took effect. The evictions have sparked outrage and raised questions about the impact of the new rules on the rental market. The situation highlights growing concerns about housing security for renters in Ireland.
The notices, delivered to residents on Friday, February 28th, 2026, demanded they vacate their homes, with the new tenancy rules coming into effect on Sunday, March 2nd, 2026. Minister for Housing, James Browne, stated that he doesn’t believe the evictions are connected to the new tenancy rules, asserting there is “no economic benefit” for the landlord in this instance. The new legislation introduces a minimum tenancy duration of six years and more restrictive rules surrounding evictions, designed to provide greater security for renters.
Patchflow Ltd, the developer and landlord responsible for the evictions, is reportedly seeking to sell the properties. Approximately 100 people, including children, are affected by the notices. The timing of the evictions has led to accusations that the landlord is attempting to circumvent the new regulations.
RTB Investigation Underway
Minister Browne confirmed that his department immediately contacted the RTB upon learning of the situation. Rosemary Steen, the RTB’s director, was directly contacted by the Minister, and an enforcement team was dispatched to the Hazelwood Estate on Monday, March 3rd, 2026, and has remained there since. “I am conscious it is now an active investigation, so I am limited in terms of what I can say,” Browne stated. He also noted the situation was “absolutely horrifying” for the tenants.
The Irish Times reported on March 4th, 2026, that Minister Browne denied any connection between the evictions and the new tenancy rules. Although, the Social Democrats have argued that the new rules are, in fact, incentivizing evictions.
Landlord’s History of RTB Disputes
Investigations reveal that Patchflow Ltd has been involved in multiple disputes with tenants before the RTB. According to the Independent.ie, Martin Sinnott and Leonie Grant are listed as directors of Patchflow Ltd, and LHMA. This history raises concerns about the company’s practices and its treatment of tenants.
A video circulating online, as reported by The Journal, shows a representative of the landlord blaming the new rental rules for the decision to issue eviction notices, stating “sell up and get out.” This statement further fuels the debate about the impact of the legislation.
Tenant Concerns and Wider Implications
The evictions in Wexford are not isolated. The Journal reported on March 5th, 2026, that dozens of readers have come forward claiming they received eviction notices shortly before the new rental rules came into effect. This suggests a potentially wider trend of landlords attempting to take action before the new regulations fully take hold.
The situation has prompted calls for stronger protections for renters and increased scrutiny of landlord practices. The RTB’s investigation will be crucial in determining whether Patchflow Ltd violated any regulations and in providing redress for the affected tenants.
The unfolding situation in Wexford underscores the ongoing challenges in Ireland’s housing market and the need for effective policies to ensure housing security for all. The RTB’s findings will be closely watched by renters and housing advocates alike.
What comes next will depend on the outcome of the RTB’s investigation. The findings could lead to legal action against Patchflow Ltd and potentially influence future policy decisions regarding rental regulations. The case also highlights the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure landlords comply with the law.
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