Airbnb and other accommodation websites could be fined up to €5,000 if they advertise lettings which have not been registered with Failte Ireland under a new scheme aimed at freeing up 12,000 properties for long term rentals.
Tourism Minister Catherine Martin said bill which would mean all short-term letting advertisements must be registered with the tourism body. The bill will update penalties for the enforcement of the register and will allow Failte Ireland to levy €300 fixed payment notice on property owners who disobey the regulations, and up to €5,000 if the matter goes to court.
Meanwhile, platforms such as Airbnb, booking.com and others must also ensure the advertisements are registered or they could also face a fine of €5,000 per listing. It is hoped the move could return 12,000 homes to the long-term market, based on international experience in Amsterdam.
