Cian O'Callaghan
Question:387. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the actions that he has taken to stop sex for rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11763/22]
View answerTuesday, 1 March 2022
Questions (387)
Written answers
I condemn in the strongest terms any instances where properties are offered for rent in return for sexual acts.
This Government is totally committed to preventing and addressing sexual abuse and gender-based violence in all its forms. I have sought and received advice from the Attorney General in relation to this matter, which I am currently considering in consultation with my colleague the Minister for Justice.
It is a complex area and we need to look at all of the potential elements involved. The correct approach to dealing with this issue needs to be carefully considered and both my Department and the Department of Justice are working together on appropriate options to do so. This includes assessing whether changes may be required to Residential Tenancies legislation or through the introduction of criminal charges.
This is utterly unacceptable behaviour which attempts to prey on the vulnerability of people seeking accommodation and all possible avenues to address it will be considered.