Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 April 2024
262. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will permit technological universities the same borrowing privileges as National University of Ireland constituent colleges, in particular to access lower-cost funding for the construction of student accommodation, rather than being reliant on private development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15796/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn November 2022, funding was approved to assist the Technological Universities (TUs) in developing a student accommodation programme based on a regional needs and feasibility assessment. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) appointed consultants to oversee and assess the levels of supply and demand for student accommodation across our public higher education institutions (HEIs).
The objective of the feasibility study is to establish an accurate “as is” account of available student accommodation supply; project future supply and demand for accommodation; and to ascertain what opportunities are available to meet the future demand for student accommodation.
Phase one of this study, a supply and demand analysis, has involved extensive data-gathering across all TUs, Universities and Colleges, comprising of a data collection framework, one-to-one meetings with HEI representatives, and a centralised student survey on student accommodation.
In parallel with the data collection, the HEA is overseeing the development of a standardised Preliminary Business Case (PBC) process and templates. The intention of this work is to develop a programmatic approach to facilitate future TU student accommodation proposals. It is proposed that this will be achieved by using the demand analysis from the data collection process to inform a framework of delivery models and funding options as part of the second phase of the study.
Phase two of this study, to design and assess a framework for student accommodation for the TU sector has commenced. Following an extensive workshop with the HEA, the HEIs had until the 27th of March to make an initial submission under the TU study. The HEA is currently evaluating these proposals and will provide an output report in April.
The next stage of the process will see a detailed development of the initial HEI submissions with a deadline of mid-August. On receipt of the final submission, the HEA will conclude their process and submit a final report to the Department by the end of September. Timelines are contingent on all parties involved being in a position to resource and deliver work packages in an efficient and expedient manner.
The TU Feasibility Study will be progressed in tandem with the Standardised Design Study for student accommodation to ensure a value for money response. The outcomes of these studies will provide a framework of delivery models and funding options, which will require approval by Government.
My Department will continue to work within the parameters of the public spending code to deliver on state supported student accommodation provision.
