Kevin Humphreys (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I wish to add my good wishes to Senator Grace O'Sullivan on her departure for Brussels. She will make a fantastic contribution there, as she has made a strong contribution in this House. I wish her the very best.

For three years, I regularly raised the issue of short-term lettings and Airbnb in the House in order to ensure that we got legislation and regulation on the issue. That legislation will come into force on 1 July. It has been identified that within the local authorities in the capital city alone, it could bring 5,000 units back into the housing market for sale or for families to be able to rent. I have continuously campaigned on this issue. Not only will the legislation bring residential units back into the marketplace in our cities and towns, it will also prevents the hollowing out of communities. To live on certain streets in the capital city is like living in a holiday resort. It is with great disappointment - I do not know why I am surprised to be disappointed in the Government because its approach seems to be one of constant spin and very little implementation.