The Gay Auckland Business Association says if it emerges there is a loophole which allows accommodation businesses to discriminate against GLBT people, it needs to be removed. In a piece entitled "Look Out There Are Rednecks About," in the latest GABA newsletter, Vice President Andy Jalfon writes: "Just when you think it is safe to be out in public along comes another clutch of rednecks to make you wonder about the extent of ignorance, intolerance and iniquity still present in our liberal democracy." He's referring to Pilgrim Planet Lodge in Whangarei, which refused to allow a lesbian couple to share a bed and told them they should find somewhere else to stay. It's being investigated by the Human Rights Commission, as under the Human Rights Act, it is unlawful to discriminate against someone in the provision of goods and services because of their sexual orientation. There is an exception for 'shared residential accommodation' under the Human Rights Act, however this covers boarders in private homes, not people staying at lodges, motels or hotels. "If there is a potential legal loophole for accommodation businesses to discriminate and then this loophole needs to be removed," Jalfon writes. "We hope the HRC agrees with GABA and our government can put in measures to stop this happening again." Jalfon says if the owners of this lodge or any other business whose job is hospitality don't like LGBT people sleeping together under their roof, then maybe accommodation isn't the right business for them. "Businesses that discriminate on the bases of sexuality must learn to follow the law and accept the wonderful diversity of our community."
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Sunday, 26th May 2013 - 7:31am