Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
911. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the status of approval for the SETU student accommodation developments in Waterford and Carlow; when the preliminary business case was received; when a decision will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37182/25]
View answerThe purpose of the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme (TSSAP) is to assess Higher Education Institution proposals for student accommodation projects on, or near, each of their main campus locations.
Stage 1 of the TSSAP involved the submission of strategic assessment documents. Higher Education Institutions, including the South-East Technological University (SETU), submitted proposals exploring a range delivery models. These proposals were jointly assessed by my Department and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in Q2 2024. Initial proposals included purpose-built student accommodation both on and off campus, leasing, joint ventures, and repurposing of vacant or derelict properties.
The second phase involves the development and assessment of the initial preliminary business cases (PBC) comprising of a PBC narrative, financial model, economic model and a multi-criteria analysis model.
The TSSAP will align with all criteria outlined within the Infrastructure Guidelines Process with regards evaluation, planning and management of public investment projects. Projects for progression under Stage 2 will align with this process, ensuring that locations are chosen based on strategic fit, feasibility, and alignment with national policy objectives.
I can confirm that the HEA, on behalf of my Department, is actively progressing the TSSAP, definitive timelines are not available at this stage of the process.
