The problem is exacerbated in some cases by demand for holiday homes and rentals. “Our main aim is to reduce the number of vacant homes and make them available for Irish speakers in the Gaeltacht. The figures also revealed that there are 9,609 holiday homes in the Gaeltachtaí. In Mayo alone, there are 817 vacant homes (13 per cent) and 1,304 holiday homes (21 per cent) in the Gaeltacht areas. MacEachmharcaigh’s role as vacant homes co-ordinator for the Gaeltachtaí means he will work with Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Kerry, Cork, Waterford and Meath local authorities.

Source: The Irish Times March 30, 2026 06:33 UTC