Student Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2024

Tuesday, 16 April 2024

Ceisteanna (754)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

754. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he is aware of the crisis that has now arisen in Ireland's study abroad sector where visiting international students are not able to source accommodation as the investment fund-owned providers of purpose-built student accommodation has brought in 51-week leases, and the students' home universities are not in a position to pay the cost of the additional ten-to-12-week leases; if his Department has conducted any analysis of the impact these 51-week leases could have on the study abroad sector, which is worth €220 million per annum to the economy and employs 350 staff members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16040/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Officials from my Department have been engaging with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the decision of private student accommodation providers to move to 51-week leases. I recognise that while there may be a market for 51-week leases among some members of the student population, it is not desirable for the vast majority of third level students. Departments officials have been working to establish the circumstances and consider what actions are available to ensure accommodation availability for students, both domestic and international.

With the support of Government, Officials are assessing legislate amendments to support student specific contracts in the academic year, subject to approval.  In addition, I understand that the previous Minister recently wrote to all relevant local authorities to seek support and advice with regards to the planning permissions for student specific accommodation and engagement is ongoing.

Student specific accommodation is within the remit of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).  The RTB provides a confidential dispute resolution service. Investigations can commence based on information received from a member of the public.  A student with specific concerns regarding their accommodation should make contact with the RTB in the first instance to seek advice or register a complaint.