James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ó Broin again for raising this important question. We know that short-term lets are a problem, not just in Ireland but right across the world, particularly where properties are taken over and used. It is an increasing problem in Ireland, putting significant pressure on areas of high demand, such as Dublin city.

I am working with the Minister, Deputy Peter Burke. Ireland has introduced regulations, but enforcement has proven to be very difficult. To set out some of the challenges, planning breaches where someone has put up a physical building are easy to identify and prosecute. When it relates more to a service, though, it can be quite difficult to detect it and gather the necessary evidence to bring a prosecution.

I am determined to tackle this issue. It is putting huge pressure on our rental sector and homelessness. I agree that it is unacceptable for companies to profit from breaches of the Planning and Development Act or any law.

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