Sinn Féin TD for Kerry, Pa Daly has called on the government and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to give guidance to local authorities and operators of short term lets.
“Clarity is necessary, particularly in rural areas where there is a demand for tourism lets but not for long term letting,” Teachta Daly said.
“Short term let businesses are an important factor in keeping life in rural areas of Kerry, where some areas are dependent on seasonal business,” he continued.
Short Term Lettings
“Since 2016, planning permission is needed for short term lettings of Non Principal Private Residences, and the government’s proposals will require registration with Fáilte Ireland for the overwhelming majority of short term lets.
“The sector’s compliance with these policies is inevitable but I am concerned for the future of these rural businesses , and the possibilities of enforcement proceedings and fines.
“Accordingly, I am calling on the Department to listen to the sector and provide for two major measures.
“The first is to ensure that any change of use applications in planning can be processed at a reasonable cost, the second is some grace period for the businesses involved and some flexibility.
Ensuring a Consistent Approach
“Local authorities also need to clarify the planning requirements in rent pressure zones and rural areas and ensure a consistent approach.
“Returning some properties to the longer term market is inevitable, but many properties are ill suited to this for various reasons and the government must recognise their importance to places such as Kerry,” he concluded.
You can contact The Maine Valley Post on… Anyone in The Maine Valley Post catchment area who would like to send us news and captioned photographs for inclusion can send them to: jreidy@mainevalleypost.com Queries about advertising and any other matters regarding The Maine Valley Post can also be sent to that address or just ring: 087 23 59 467.
