Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
585. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will consider a waiver for student accommodation for those beginning third level in September 2020 in view of the fact that some colleges may be delayed in resuming on campus in order to assist parents and students with accommodation costs for September; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15145/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe national co-ordination group for tertiary education is meeting on a regular basis to consider key issues impacting the tertiary sector, including arrangements for re-opening institutions. These arrangements will be dependent on public health advice, and will be communicated to learners as soon as possible.
Student accommodation licence terms including cost, duration, refund and cancellation policies should be set out in the licence agreement signed at the beginning of the academic year. While I would hope that accommodation providers would show flexibility to students in the current times, agreements between students and accommodation providers are a private matter, and neither I nor my Department have any remit to issue instructions in relation to the private rental market.
