Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Again, this amendment has been re-tabled. In fairness, Senator Higgins outlined her position on this and I explained why I did not believe it would be appropriate. My primary concern regarding student complexes is that they should not be used as permanent residential accommodation or as a hotel or hostel. I issued this circular a number of weeks ago. They are dedicated student accommodation complexes and that is how it should be, particularly always having regard to the general shortage of student accommodation. We are tackling the matter and intend for it to happen. I am happy that this provision is appropriate and it strikes the right balance for considering whether student accommodation development goes through the LRDs process. I cannot accept the amendment.