Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
1373. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if there are plans to upscale the provision of student accommodation for those who are coming to Ireland to study from abroad on a short-term basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47192/23]
View answerI am actively prioritising the supply and affordability of student accommodation, in recognition of the challenges our students are facing. Through “Housing for All”, the Government has approved development of policy and funding to increase the supply of student accommodation.
I have to date secured Government approval in principle of up to €61m in funding to unlock the development of up to 1,000 additional student accommodation beds in partnership with our University sector. These projects which are being progressed under my Department’s Short Term Activation Plan, are developments that had planning permission but had stalled as a result of increased construction and financing costs. My Officials are examining similar proposals with planning permission with UCD and TCD. Subject to approval, I will be seeking Government support in the coming weeks to progress these additional projects through the NDP review process.
Investment of €1m in 2023/2024 was also approved to support the Technological Universities in conducting an activation feasibility assessment to ascertain student accommodation needs in regional and local campus locations.
In the immediate term, my Department has supported the increased usage of "digs" accommodation through the promotion of the Rent-a-Room Scheme. Recent Government changes to the scheme, has increased the number of those who can now participate. This summer, I launched a national media campaign in conjunction with the higher education institutions (HEIs) to promote awareness of and participation in the scheme, targeting both homeowners and students. The campaign which commenced in July, ran on radio, social media and national press with a second wave in August 2023. As of the 20th October there are over 2,300 rooms available in digs accommodation across the country. HEIs continue to support their students to find accommodation at a local level.
A new policy is being prepared by my officials with a view to bringing proposals to Government in Q4 this year.
The operation of student accommodation including allocation of available rooms is a matter for the University or accommodation operator. All students are advised to contact their registered institution regarding the availability of accommodation or for help in securing accommodation in the first instance.
