The government has given its backing to a new bill aimed at stamping out the practice of providing rental accommodation in exchange for sexual favours.
Landlords who demand sex for rent could face a €50,000 fine or up to seven years in prison under the proposed new legislation.
The 'Ban On Sex For Rent' bill would also criminalise advertising accommodation in return for sex.
Minister of State for Law Reform, James Browne, while backing the Bill, said it would require further work:
"The Government supports the objectives of the bill - in principal, and will not be opposing it here today.
"My Department has considered the provisions of the bill and has sought the advice of the Attorney General on the proposals.
"I am advised there are no difficulty with the intent of the bill.
"There are however some concerns with the detail of the bill which would need to be addressed to ensure that it is legally sound and achieves its objectives."
