Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 June 2025
575. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated timeline for when his Department expects the shortlisted projects under Stage 2 of the technological sector student accommodation programme to commence. [31712/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme?(TSSAP) is currently progressing through the Infrastructure Guidelines Process, which includes a Strategic Assessment and Preliminary Business Case.
Stage 1 of the TSSAP included the development of a supply and demand model and a programmatic approach for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to submit preliminary business cases for student accommodation.
As part of the first stage, HEIs submitted strategic assessment documents outlining proposed student accommodation projects last year. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) undertook an evaluation of this long-list and provided a report to my Department. Initial proposals included purpose-built student accommodation both on and off campus, leasing, joint ventures, and repurposing of vacant or derelict properties.
The second stage of the TSSAP will involve 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; however, at this stage, I am unable to provide a definitive timeline.
