Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 February 2024
182. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will review correspondence (detail supplied) and advise a student regarding her rental property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8295/24]
View answerMinister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien and I have asked our officials to engage on the decision of private student accommodation providers to move to 51-week leases. We recognise that while there may be a market for 51 week leases among some members of the student population, it is not desirable for the vast majority of third level students. We are working to establish the circumstances and consider what action are available to ensure accommodation availability for students.
Students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions of their lease agreements before entering into same. I would encourage students to contact their provider directly to ascertain the availability of academic year availability.
Student specific accommodation is within the remit of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). The RTB provides a confidential dispute resolution service. This service offers a choice of resolution types to parties – Telephone Mediation or Adjudication – and the option to appeal through a tenancy tribunal. Investigations can commence based on information received from a member of the public. It is open to a student to make contact with the RTB with any complaints or disputes regarding their accommodation.
