Ireland investigates nearly 1,600 suspected illegal short-term rentals since 2023, mainly in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.

Irish authorities have launched nearly 1,600 investigations into suspected illegal short-term rentals since 2023, with over 100 in Galway alone, as part of nationwide enforcement efforts in rent pressure zones requiring planning permission for stays over 90 days annually. Dublin City Council led with 607 probes, followed by Cork City with 202, while only 50 permission applications were submitted nationwide in 2025. Enforcement has largely involved warning letters, with no penalties reported in most cases. Galway City Council reviewed 98 properties, and Sligo saw 14 investigations, while Mayo and Roscommon councils did not respond to inquiries. Meanwhile, Galway County Council is considering buying two vacant, derelict housing developments in the South Conamara Gaeltacht for social or affordable housing, amid concerns over language and cultural preservation.