Currently, a person who is abusing a partner can refuse to relinquish their rights under a joint tenancy in social housing. If a person has a barring order against a former partner for domestic violence, the partner's name remains on the tenancy and cannot be unwillingly removed. For example, if a person needs to transfer housing, this has to be agreed to as a joint tenant. The law is inadvertently facilitating that kind of abuse. Domestic violence is a very complicated issue and there are few easy solutions but in this case an amendment to the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014 would make a significant difference to people, mainly women and children, in vulnerable situations. In his last few days in the role, I ask the Taoiseach to begin the process of making the necessary changes to the legislation to support victims and survivors of domestic violence.

I thank the Deputy for raising an important issue and making a fair point. I will follow up with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in respect of the changes she seeks.