James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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1300. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the regulations in place for owners of caravan parks regarding facilities and rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19391/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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Under the Tourist Traffic Acts 1939-2016, Fáilte Ireland has specific powers and functions regarding the registration and grading of tourist accommodation. In accordance with the legislation, certain categories of accommodation, such as caravan and camping parks are statutorily obliged to register with Fáilte Ireland and comply with approved regulations. The Registration and Renewal of Registration Regulations for Caravan and Camping 2009 are the regulations that currently apply to caravan parks. From 1 February, 2020, new regulations will come into effect namely the Short Term Tourist Accommodation Regulations (STTAR). These amalgamated and updated the various regulations in place for different types of self catering accommodation and will include caravan parks.

In addition to the statutory systems, Fáilte Ireland also offers a voluntary quality assurance approval and listing system for other accommodation providers under the Welcome Standard.

It is important to note that these regulations and the Welcome Standard mainly relate to the quality of the product and the level of service provided. Neither my Department nor Fáilte Ireland has any role in relation to rental charges of caravan parks and accordingly this is not covered in the Fáilte Ireland accommodation regulations.