James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 141:

In page 70, subsection (1), line 23, after "unoccupied" to insert "or comprises of a rented dwelling,".

It is grossly unfair to impose this burden on the tenants of a rented house. It should clearly be the duty of the landlord to ensure that this section be complied with. One simply cannot impose the responsibilities of an owner on the occupier of a rented property. Landlords have responsibility for the properties that they own, and I urge the Minister of State to accept these two amendments. It makes sense to do so and tighten up the legislation in this regard.