Government rowback means short-term let restrictions will only apply to towns of more than 20,000 people

Kenmare: Concerns about the original plans had been raised by Kerry TDs Norma Foley and Michael Healy-Rae.

The Government is rowing back on proposals to strictly regulate Airbnb-style short-term lets to free up rental accommodation, with restrictions now set to apply to towns with a population of more than 20,000.

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke confirmed the change had been agreed by Government leaders on Monday night, saying the Coalition needed to be “cognisant” of tourism towns that have low hotel capacity.