Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I accept the Minister's response, but numerous reasons are being given by this sector for refusing to provide refunds. The fact is that student accommodation is shared by between three and up to seven students, which makes it impossible for them to socially distance.

Tax reliefs are still being claimed by more than 200 providers throughout the country. In 2017, 246 providers claimed the relief. They were given tax relief to build these facilities. Some of them got free sites and others will come back, cap in hand, under the PUP scheme, the TWSS or the rate relief scheme because they will be unable to rent this accommodation during the summer months. The Minister for Education and Skills has said that she cannot do anything about this and Deputy Donohoe has said he cannot do anything about this. The reality is that these businesses are pocketing the money of students who do not have it and something needs to be done.

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