The government’s dilution of short-term rental restrictions is a slap in the face for renters, according to Social Democrats housing spokesperson Rory Hearne.
Deputy Hearne said:
“The changes to regulations, that were agreed by coalition leaders last night on short-term lets, will now restrict new rules to towns with populations of more than 20,000 – up from 10,000.
“This is the result of behind-the-scenes political lobbying, which has gutted these provisions before they have even come into force.
“Incredibly, among those lobbying hardest and loudest for these rules to be relaxed were members of this government – with Forestry Minister Michael Healy Rae leading the charge. Following his efforts, Killarney will no longer be included in the new short-term let regime.
“This capitulation is further evidence that this government’s priorities lie with landlords over renters.
“Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Regional Independents, like Michael Healy Rae, are not acting in the interests of those desperately looking for an affordable home to rent or buy.
“Previously, the government said these measures would result in 12,000 homes, which are currently used for short-term letting, becoming available as long-term rental properties or for sale. What is this figure after these latest restrictions? Or does anyone in government know?
“The grim reality is that there are ten times more properties available for short-term lets than long-term lets – 22,000 in the short-term market versus 1,800 available on daft.ie.
“Lack of rental supply is not just an issue in urban areas. It is having a devastating impact in rural areas, smaller towns and particularly Gaeltacht areas.
“Instead of introducing strong reforms of the short-term letting sector, to increase the supply of homes to rent and buy, this government prefers to turn renters into cash cows for investment funds who will bleed them dry.”
February 10th, 2026