Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
129. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the actions his Department is taking to increase access to student accommodation in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37416/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy focus is on delivering targeted and effective interventions that promote equitable access to higher education across the country. This means addressing the challenges that may prevent students from progressing to or through third-level education due to difficulties in securing or affording suitable accommodation.
To effectively address the challenges in student accommodation, we are employing four key tools: the development of standardised design approaches to improve efficiency and reduce costs; the use of enhanced supply and demand data to inform planning and investment decisions; the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme to support regionally balanced, institution-specific delivery models; and the national student accommodation survey to capture the lived experiences and needs of students across the country.
I recently published the Design Guide for State Sponsored Student Accommodation. The Design Guide reflects feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring the design standards are both practical and responsive to real-world needs. It will support the efficient delivery of additional student accommodation that prioritises student wellbeing, provides long-term value for the State, and embodies high quality architectural design.
A key part of enabling our vision is ensuring that the Technological Sector can play a full role in developing student accommodation to meet the needs of students across the country. To support this, the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme is progressing. Proposals from the sector include the construction of new Purpose-Built Student Accommodation, leasing, nomination agreements, joint ventures and repurposing of vacant properties. Atlantic Technological University Galway is participating in this programme.
Separately, the University of Galway opened 674 new beds at Dunlin Village for the 2023/2024 academic year, and on Queen Street over 300 new beds are in development by the private sector supported by Ireland Strategic Investment Fund.
My department will continue to promote digs type accommodation as an alternative option that students might consider as a convenient and more affordable option for some. As an initiative to address the shortage of beds for those attending college, the Department has developed an advertising campaign asking homeowners to rent rooms to students. Department’s ‘digs’ promotional campaigns which ran in 2023 and 2024 have seen a signification increase in beds listed by higher education institutions for students.
My Department will continue to work closely with higher education institutions to develop and implement accommodation initiatives under this strategy. I am committed to ensuring that the development of viable student accommodation continues with urgency and ambition. I intend to bring the Student Accommodation Strategy to Government later this year.
