Ms Caoimhe Hope:

We recognise the role of the private sector in student accommodation provision. It has been substantially to date led and driven by the private sector. Two thirds of the current student accommodation specific supply in this country is owned and operated by the private sector while one third is provided by the public sector. Our role here is to recognise that there is a shortage of supply. We are working really closely with the public sector and we have engagement with the private sector in terms of trying to activate that supply. For targets going forward we are looking at how we work to stimulate that supply and support it, through alternative methods as well. We are looking at vacancy, refurbishment and transport links but specifically at the development of additional purpose-built student accommodation supply.

It is crucial to look at the data, get the targets right and drive on with the delivery of the supply which we recognise under Housing for All as a key enabler for students to access higher education.