Fianna Fáil is calling for more cities to be included in the Government’s rental strategy.

Housing Minister Simon Coveney’s plan would cap rent hikes in Dublin and Cork at 4% for three years.

Fianna Fáil says Galway, Limerick, Waterford and large population centres surrounding Dublin and Cork city should also be included.

The party’s housing spokesperson Barry Cowen says the 4% rate is not appropriate either.

He said: “I think you have to acknowledge in these pressurised rent zones that you have abnormal increases in rent, you’re at a very high level.

“And to offer a premium again on top of that, we don’t think is appropriate. We agree with the concept, but we don’t think that rate is appropriate.”