Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2025
58. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will commit to ensuring that technological universities are able to borrow funds in order to facilitate the building and purchasing of student accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14566/25]
View answerA new student accommodation strategy is in development following Government approval of the long-term policy in January 2024. The strategy will include measures to increase the supply of student accommodation, reduce the cost of delivery through standardised design guidance and promote efficient use of existing building stock through refurbishment and an examination of vacancy, while supporting balanced regional development through a Technological University (TU) student accommodation programme.
The intention of the TU student accommodation programme is to assess proposals and potential opportunities to meet the future demand for accommodation. The programme, together with the ongoing standardised design study, will provide a framework of viable delivery models based on regional needs and feasibility assessments. Any potential funding options will be informed by this framework of delivery models and may require approval by Government.
