Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
27. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the way in which he has engaged with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in relation to restrictive 51-week tenancies for the 2024-25 academic year announced by some operators of student accommodation in Dublin. [9090/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am concerned that a move to annual contracts by some private operators will further increase the cost and barriers to higher education for students. I do not support this divergence away from the policy intention to facilitate students with accommodation during the academic year, and any planning conditions of specific student accommodation.
Accordingly, I along with the Minister Darragh O’Brien 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 or affordable for the vast majority of third level students and their families.
Officials from both Departments have been engaging extensively and held a meeting on the 19th of February to establish the circumstances of the 51 week leases and consider what action is available to ensure accommodation availability for students and address the issues raised. A number of options are being closely considered under the Residential Tenancies Act and the specific planning consents for these accommodation developments. This process will continue to work to a resolution of this matter.
My officials are also engaged with the Residential Tenancies Board regarding the 51-week occupancy model. The RTB is the independent regulator of the residential tenancies sector including specific student accommodation.
