What is the new Minister for Justice going to do about rents?  The recent cases from Burger King, Celtic Jewellers and Venu show that retailers are fighting back with their backs to the wall.  The Circuit Court are sending a clear message on Grafton Street – 53% down from the peak.  Unfortunately all the dithering from Givernment is leading to a complete collapse in confidence.  Agents don’t know what a good deal is any more – will it be a bad deal next week? 

Alan Shatter is not long in the job.  He is a highly intelligent operator though and seems to set for change soon.  The sooner the better.  The High Court is finally getting to hear cases now that began two years ago and we are going to see some big names in Court in the next month.  We need decisive Government action that balances the interests properly.  Otherwise it is going to be a meltdown.  In some centres nobody is paying any rent any more.  This will be contagious soon and the uncertainty is killing everyone.  Give us a lead, let the market react and settle and then we can rebuild.  The game playing has everyone exhausted and nobody is looking forward, only trying to outsmart the other guy. 

The market is crying out for leadership.  Let’s hope it comes sooner rather than later.