Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I probably do not have time to engage on the Deputy's last point, but let me offer some statistics. While I accept there needs to be new policy initiatives and policy levers, some of which I have outlined, it is important to say that since 2016 we have seen 12,149 purpose-built student bed units built. Work is under way on-site on an additional 3,128 units and planning permission has been obtained for a further 10,493 units. In addition, planning permission for a further 1,028 units has been applied for. I just wanted to put those figures on the record of the House. In addition, regarding the Atlantic Technological University, institutes of technology and technological universities lacked clarity as to whether they could borrow to build student accommodation. That has now been clarified. They now can, and we have put into the mix immediate local solutions. The piece we are trying to rectify is affordability. What student unions say to me is that this is not just about the numbers being built, which I have cited, but has to be about trying to find that affordability. We have changed the law, as we discussed earlier, to deal with some of the difficulties students face in terms of upfront costs for student accommodation. I accept we need to do more and I will bring proposals to the Cabinet committee in April.

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