Vol. 568 No. 1
320 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on USI demands that the Government make immediate moves towards the construction of purpose built and State funded student accommodation in all third level institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15197/03]
My Department does not provide direct financial assistance for the provision of student accommodation. In recognition of the difficulties students can experience in obtaining accommodation and following consultation with third level colleges, a special tax incentive was introduced to encourage the provision of dedicated student residential accommodation in section 50 of the Finance Act 1999.
The tax incentive is available for expenditure up to 31 December 2004 where an application for planning permission is received by a planning authority by 30 September 2003. Therefore the opportunity exists to create significant additional accommodation for third level students.
Rent a room relief scheme was introduced in the Finance Act 2001. It allows homeowners rent out a room in their homes and have rental income up to €7,620 a year tax free. The scheme encourages householders to rent rooms to students.
