Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
603. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide an update on the funding of on-campus student accommodation that was announced for Maynooth University in November 2022 (details supplied). [43713/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 29 November 2022, I received Government approval for a new policy to provide state assistance to stimulate the development of new and additional student accommodation for public higher education institutions. This landmark policy response will, for the first time, see the State providing financial support in the construction of student accommodation, and underpins the policy commitments set out in Housing for All.
To date, the Government has approved a total of up to €61 million in capital and current funding to unlock the development of circa 1,000 beds, including 116 beds at Maynooth University. These developments have planning permission but have stalled as a result of increased construction costs. My officials are also examining additional proposals for potential developments within the HEI sector.
My Department and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) are actively working through the financial and governance due diligence process for these projects in line with the Public Spending Code. It is anticipated that the due diligence process for the Maynooth University project will be completed successfully this week, with the project progressing to tendering stage thereafter, subject to approval.
Work is underway on site on an additional 583 private beds spaces in Maynooth. Planning permission has been granted for 241 public beds with a further 260 beds awaiting a planning decision.
