Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I am not happy with the Minister of State's response. He gave the example of bed and breakfast accommodation. Such a service could be provided in a house that is not self-contained. I am aware of situations where bed and breakfast is provided in a room of a house with the person sharing the bathroom with others. Such accommodation would not be covered by this provision. Does this provision mean that an au pair living in a granny flat could not be discriminated against even though her accommodation affects the family life of the person residing in the home? This legislation makes life difficult for those providing accommodation in extra space in their homes. This section is problematic. Perhaps the Minister of State could rethink it.

Accommodation does not necessarily have to be provided in a separate and self-contained part of the House. A family with a granny flat or extension with a separate entrance, as opposed to a family whose home has no alterations, would be excluded from the protection provided in this legislation.