Almost 550 houses were listed on Airbnb in Kerry’s Gaeltacht areas this summer, while none were available for long-term rental.
That’s according to investigative journalist Kevin Magee, whose programme on the housing crisis in Irish speaking areas airs tonight on TG4 (at 9.30).
'Níl Aon Tinteán' examines the chronic shortage of long-term rentals in Gaeltacht regions, including two areas in Kerry, Corca Dhuibne and Úibh Ráthaigh (Iveragh).
Mr Magee says in August there were 385 properties listed to let in Corca Dhuibne on Airbnb; 158 were listed on the site in Úibh Ráthaigh.
However, there were no properties available for long term rent in either of these areas.
Kevin Magee believes measure addressing similar issues in Welsh-speaking parts of Wales could be introduced here.
UPDATE - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH, 2024
STATEMENT FROM AIRBNB:
In response to the TG4 documentary and the above story from Radio Kerry, Airbnb says: “A typical host in Ireland shares one home for just 3 nights a month, and half say the extra income helps them afford rising costs. While Airbnb is not the cause of long-standing housing challenges in the Gaeltacht, we want to partner with the Government on the challenges they face. We have long called for Ireland to introduce modern short-term let rules, including a host register, that protect the families, communities, and businesses that depend on rural tourism.”
