Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has honestly highlighted what is a very delicate balance. Deputies in the House are quite rightly calling on me to ensure we provide extra college places and it is perfectly appropriate. At the same time, we must meet the needs of existing students, and all in a world of Covid-19, where health and safety must come first. As I stated, I expect all students to receive details of their on-site versus off-site learning mix in the first two weeks of September, and I am conscious we are through one of those weeks now. It is the commitment given to me by the universities.

With accommodation, I very much welcome that a number of institutions are now providing more flexible arrangements. For example, if a student is on-site two days a week, he or she may book a room for two days rather than having to take a lease for five or seven days per week over the full college year. I encourage more of our colleges and universities to do that.

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