Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
201. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if his Department has engaged with the NTA to ensure that there is sufficient bus and train routes, and capacity for students who commute to college particularly at peak times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34850/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Student Accommodation Strategy 2026-2035 which has been published has a focus on increasing accommodation supply on or near campus and supporting HEIs to reduce travel demand for students.
The Strategy aligns with wider transport demand management objectives and complements national mobility strategies by recognising the link between accommodation and commuting patterns. HEIs will use data-driven insights to assess student mobility and support efficient commuting, while participating in sustainable transport initiatives and promoting active and public transport options.
As part of the Strategy a pilot project will strengthen collaboration between HEIs, transport authorities and local bodies to improve commuting options and monitor outcomes. Commutes exceeding three hours in total are considered excessive and are reflected in demand planning for student accommodation.
My officials maintain active and ongoing engagement with the Department of Transport and the National Transport Authority (NTA) to ensure that the transport needs of the student population are central to national route planning and capacity reviews. While the primary responsibility for public transport infrastructure rests with the Minister for Transport, my Department provides critical data on student commuting patterns to enable peak-time demand be addressed.
