Kilkenny figures call for clarity on challenges to important local sector

Representatives from the self-catering accommodation sector were hosted at Leinster House

Published 21st Jun 2026, 10:00 BST John McGuinness TD with members of the ICSF executive Representatives from the self-catering accommodation sector were hosted at Leinster House Carlow- Kilkenny TD and Leas-Cheann Comhairle, John McGuinness has expressed his support for greater clarity and engagement with the tourism sector following a meeting in Dáíl Éireann with representatives of the Irish Self-Catering Federation (ISCF), including CEO Máire Ní Mhurchú and Goresbridge native Majella Prendergast.

Deputy McGuinness hosted members of the federation to discuss the significant challenges currently facing Ireland’s self-catering accommodation sector, particularly ongoing uncertainty surrounding the introduction of the proposed Short-Term Tourism Lettings (STTL) Register and associated planning legislation.

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Speaking following the meeting, Deputy McGuinness said: “I was delighted to welcome Máire Ní Mhurchú, Majella Prendergast from Goresbridge and representatives of the Irish Self-Catering Federation to Leinster House to hear first-hand about the issues affecting this vital sector of Irish tourism.”

“Self-catering accommodation providers play a hugely important role in supporting local economies, sustaining jobs and attracting visitors to rural Ireland, including throughout Kilkenny and Carlow,” he added.

The ICSF highlighted concerns that, despite previous timelines and legislative expectations, there is still no operational short-term rental register in place. The register is required under an EU directive that obliges all member states to establish a national registration system for short-term rentals by May 2026.

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However, key operational details remain unresolved, including registration procedures, costs, planning requirements and how online booking platforms will interact with the new system.

Deputy McGuinness noted that while the sector supports the principle of a register, businesses need certainty.

“The Federation is not opposing the register. In fact, they have been calling for one since 2017. What they are seeking is a practical and workable system that gives clarity to operators, guests and local authorities alike,” he said.

“That is a reasonable request and one that Government should carefully consider,” he continued.

A major concern raised during the meeting was Ireland’s unique approach of linking registration requirements directly to planning legislation. The ICSF warned that many long-established self-catering businesses could face uncertainty regarding retrospective planning requirements, despite operating successfully for many years.

Deputy McGuinness said: “Many family-run businesses are deeply concerned about how the proposed planning provisions will be applied. The Government must provide clear guidance, particularly for long-established operators, heritage properties, glamping providers and businesses located in rural communities.”

“We cannot allow uncertainty to undermine investment and confidence in the sector,” he added.

The federation also outlined the broader challenges facing tourism providers, including rising energy costs, global economic uncertainty, changing travel patterns and increasing operational expenses.

Deputy McGuinness acknowledged the important contribution made by self-catering accommodation to rural tourism.

“In counties such as Kilkenny and Carlow, self-catering accommodation provides visitors with flexibility while generating valuable spending in local shops, restaurants, attractions and service providers,” he outlined.

“The loss of these properties from the tourism market would have a direct impact on many local communities,” he concluded.

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