Sinn Fein Housing Spokesperson Eoin O Broin says measures need to be taken to halt the rising rents.

Longford had the highest average rent for new tenancies in the region at €992.

It follows a blockade of the Book of Kells exhibition in September organised by the students' union, in protest at a proposed 2 per cent increase to the current rent.

CEO of Alone, Sean Moynihan, says the vast majority want help for older people forced to rent.

These new figures reveal that Leitrim is the cheapest county in Ireland to rent in the country.

Student Unions are highlighting the challenges facing students ahead of the upcoming academic year.

Nationally, Just 10 per cent of renters have claimed the credit so far this year.

It's been reported that Revenue will carry out an information campaign.