The government must clarify if planned restrictions on short-term lets will apply to towns located in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) where populations are under the 10,000 threshold provided for in the new regulations, according to Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne.
Deputy Hearne, who is the party’s spokesperson on housing, said:
“Under the Short-Term Letting and Tourism Bill, a new register will be overseen by Fáilte Ireland to provide a clearer picture of registered tourist accommodation across the State. Hosts offering accommodation for periods up to and including 21 nights will be obliged to hold a valid registration number that must be displayed when advertising the property on platforms such as Airbnb.
“There will be additional restrictions on short-term lettings in towns with populations of more than 10,000 people – a measure that is expected to bring up to 12,000 homes back into the long-term rental market. At a time of unprecedented housing need, every single one of these properties can make a difference to families and individuals looking to put a roof over their heads.
“However, it is not yet clear if these long-delayed measures, which are not expected to come into effect until summer 2026, will also apply to towns located in RPZs but below the 10,000 population threshold.
“In our view, the entire country should be covered by short-term let regulations – not just towns with larger populations.
“While it is often argued that short-term lets provide a tourism boost to rural parts of the country, the reality is that they also create an unlevel playing field for traditional accommodation providers. For instance, owners of guest houses have to pay thousands in commercial rates and water charges, while those hosting properties on Airbnb do not.
“Regulating short-term lets is an area of housing that Fine Fáil and Fine Gael have dragged their feet on. Rather than dealing with the issue comprehensively, it is worrying that this government is potentially leaving significant parts of the country out of their proposed planning restrictions.
“I am now asking the government to urgently clarify this matter.”
May 13, 2025