Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2015
370. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the report she promised on student accommodation will be published; the measures she plans to introduce to address the crisis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16405/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraData gathered for the report referred to by the Deputy is being validated by the HEA in consultation with my Department and other stakeholders. I expect the report to be finalised in the coming weeks.
As I have already stated, some institutions provide a range of accommodation, and all colleges have an obligation to work with students' unions and other groups, to provide students with details on accommodation options. Initiatives such as USI's 'Homes for Study' are of help to students and list suitable accommodation available to rent across Ireland.
I will continue to work with stakeholders to explore ways to increase the availability of student accommodation.
In the longer term, the Government is committed to addressing the housing shortage through the Construction 2020 strategy. This will not resolve all of our problems immediately, but I am confident that the implementation of Construction 2020 will provide us with a sustainable housing stock in the medium to longer term.
