Action on AirBnB must be fast-tracked says Humphreys

09 September 2018

Labour Senator Kevin Humphreys, who has been calling for action to regulate AirBnB for two years has welcomed the belated moves by the Minister for Housing to regulate the sector.

Senator Kevin Humphreys said:

“Today’s Sunday Times reports that the Minister for Housing will finally take action on short term lets like AirBnB. Areas like my own have borne the brunt of the failure of Minister Eoghan Murphy and the Fine Gael government to act on this growing problem.

“I am glad he is finally taking action and would remind him that I have been raising this problem for two years now, and have introduced legislation in the Seanad to regulate the sector that can be progressed quickly if he agrees.

“The Taoiseach has repeatedly said in the last few days that there are no ‘quick fix’ solutions in the housing cirisis but moving urgently to regulate Airbnb type short term lets would free up thousands of units for long term leases.

“Estimates have shown that there are upwards of 3,000 homes being used for full time, short term lets in Dublin alone, properties that could provide homes for thousands of people. No one has a problem with someone letting out a room for a few weeks, or indeed their home if they are abroad for a period of time. The crisis is with the full time businesses now making serious profits servicing the tourist industry while thousands of people cannot secure affordable homes.

“Minister Eoghan Murphy will know well the impact this is having in his own constituency. I have been inundated with complaints from residents who find their streets have been turned into hotels. The Minister has stood idly by for the last 15 months when he could have made a difference.

“I am glad he is taking action now if the reports are true, but it must be fast tracked in the new Dáil term. We can’t afford further delays.”

Stay up to date

Receive our latest updates in your inbox.
By subscribing you agree to receive emails about our campaigns, policies, appeals and opportunities to get involved. Privacy Policy

Follow us

Connect with us on social media