Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There is already a shortage of accommodation for students. I acknowledge the efforts that are being made with legislation. Prioritising accommodation for first years recognises the change for them coming into college. People who are going into second year this year have not had the opportunity to live away from home, make friends, get a network, book accommodation and so on. They are facing a situation that will be different from previous years. Reserving accommodation for first years does not acknowledge that. People facing into second year need support with accommodation too. That needs to be recognised in advance. Those bookings need to be made already. Second years often book their accommodation in March, April and May because they know where it is, how much it will cost and who their friends will be. That option has not been available to these people. They should be recognised and prioritised.

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