- The ISCF has called for postponement of the register to September 2026.
- Clear exemptions have been requested for established self-catering and glamping operators.
- A structured data-driven register has been proposed to reflect the sector scale.
- The bill has not completed all stages in the Oireachtas
- The register has formed part of broader EU harmonisation under Regulation 2024/1028.
With just ten days to go, the Irish Self-Catering Federation has urged the Government to postpone the introduction of the Short-Term Lettings Register until September 2026. The federation has supported the register in line with EU requirements but has sought practical implementation and clear planning guidelines. The Department of Enterprise website has listed 1 May 2026 as the introduction date while the bill has not passed all Oireachtas stages.
The ISCF has requested a National Planning Statement for Short-Term Rentals that includes defined exemptions. This approach has aimed to allow time for consultation and development of a data-driven system. The federation has represented owners from SME businesses to dairy farmers and marketing agents across the island of Ireland.
Global factors such as fuel cost fluctuations and rising operational costs have added to sector uncertainty. The ISCF has expressed concern over inaccurate international commentary that has suggested booking self-catering in Ireland carries risks. The organisation has maintained engagement with Government to achieve a proportionate framework.
Máire Ní Mhurchú shared “Ireland remains one of the safest and most attractive destinations in the European Union for tourism in 2026. However, without clear and timely policy direction, the sector risks failing to fully realise this potential.”
