Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
245. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to provide an update on the new student accommodation strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67567/25]
View answerThe National Student Accommodation Strategy 2025–2035 will be submitted to Government in the coming weeks, with publication anticipated soon thereafter. The Strategy sets out a vision to make higher education more accessible and sustainable by addressing accommodation affordability and viability.
By providing targeted financial supports and accelerating the development of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), the Strategy removes barriers that prevent students from pursuing their academic goals while strengthening Ireland’s knowledge economy. It aims to deliver additional student beds using a combination of on and off campus PBSA, and Rent-a-Room schemes without increasing reliance on the broader rental market.
The Strategy addresses delivery challenges by reforming rent controls, adjusting VAT, and introducing streamlined design standards under the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2025, creating a stable, attractive environment for investment. Standardisation, State capital, and private investment will accelerate supply. Affordability is supported through strengthened financial assistance, including the Student Non-Adjacent Maintenance Grant, ensuring equitable access for students from disadvantaged or remote backgrounds.
Progress will be measured through annual reporting by Higher Education Institutions, tracking PBSA completions, Rent-a-Room participation, and student support levels, while an Inter-Departmental Implementation Group will review overall delivery every three years to ensure the Strategy’s targets remain relevant and are met.
