Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
1259. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to prioritise and accelerate the delivery of purpose built student accommodation in Kerry, Cork and Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34255/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI published the National Student Accommodation Strategy 2026 to 2035 in March 2026. It sets out a pathway to make higher education more accessible by addressing two critical challenges, student accommodation affordability, and student accommodation supply and viability.
The Higher Education Institutions Student Accommodation Programme (HSAP) has been launched and the programme board established. HEI's are gathering the required information to form their Preliminary Business Cases which are due for completion throughout 2026. Initial Market soundings in relation the HSAP will shortly conclude. Delivery will be phased, beginning in Dublin, Cork and Galway.
Implementation will be overseen through an Inter Departmental Implementation Group, which will provide coordination and oversight across Government, higher education institutions and other stakeholders.
Each Higher Education Institution is required to prepare its own student accommodation strategy aligned with the national Strategy, and to report annually on progress and outcomes. Higher Education Institution’s will also establish dedicated accommodation functions, supported by the Department
As of the April 2026, over 4,700 rent a room student beds were advertised through higher education institutions nationwide, with 998 of these beds being advertised in Cork, 540 of these beds being advertised in Limerick and 559 beds being advertised in Kerry.
Since 2017, 16,266 PBSA beds have been completed nationwide, bringing total stock to over 49,200. As of the end of April 2026, commencement notice has issued for 2,935 Student beds while a further 14,449 beds have planning permission granted. Additionally, planning permission has been applied for another 1,246 student beds.
Since 2017 3,684 beds have been completed in Cork. Planning has been granted for 1,704 beds. Commencement notices have issued for 206 beds at Victoria Cross Road and planning has also been applied for 503 beds.
In respect of Limerick, since 2017 159 beds have completed. Planning has been granted for 2,225 beds, Commencement notices have issued for 511 beds in total.
