twenty-four hour mini-supermarket in the town centre. Our poor economic profile meant that flat owners were reluctant to rent to us, fearing that we would default on our rent payments. In the end we claimed to have jobs that we did not. If we hadn’t done so, we wouldn’t have found anywhere. By far the most disturbing aspect during our search was the run-down character of so much of the property on offer. Much of it fell far below legal standards: the gas and electricity systems were poorly maintained and the sewage systems were below standard. Usually these properties were meagerly furnished and were extremely dirty. We had to choose the least worst option which was a three-roomed flat on the fourth floor of a tenement building. We moved in today. The landlord asked for a thousand Euro deposit and three months rent in advance. With great difficulty we complied. The place is filthy and I have drawn up a list of work that needs to be done to make the place liveable. As we only have three rooms we drew lots to see who would end up with the kitchen: the other girl, Dora, chose the short straw. Well, she can make cups of tea during the night. Anyway I must sign off now as I have work to do. J