Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledged the measures that were brought in to alleviate the pressures. However, it is not enough. This crisis has been years in the making. We have all met USI representatives. We have all met college and university representatives, who have told us about this and said quite clearly that this crisis would become worse.

I would like to know if the Taoiseach will answer the question. This is a real barrier for students now and it will deter many students from going to college. Unfortunately, college and third level education will become a preserve of the wealthy if action is not taken on this issue. I ask the Taoiseach if his Government will reinstate the education disadvantage committee to try to focus on this issue and deal quickly with it.

The Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, is talking about meeting "international obligations" but he also needs to focus on meeting the needs of our student population. We have tens of thousands of students without accommodation. That is the reality. Unfortunately, that is the fact of the matter. I am getting calls every day of the week from students all over the country who cannot source accommodation.

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