Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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304. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a person (details supplied) could not have their accommodation fees refunded from DCU in line with best practice in terms of Covid-19 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36103/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I am conscious of the challenges faced by students in relation to student accommodation this year due to financial pressures and the blended learning format of the 2020/21 academic year. Throughout the last number of months my Department has been engaging with representatives from the higher education sector to address the challenges faced by students in this difficult time. My Department, in consultation with these key stakeholders will continue to monitor the situation relating to student accommodation closely.

Refund or cancellation policies in student accommodation should be set out in the license agreement signed at the beginning of the academic year. In the first instance students should engage with their accommodation provider to see if an arrangement can be reached in regard to a refund.

If this is not possible, under the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2019 students have access to the Dispute Resolution Services of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).

I have asked our higher education institutions, where they have accommodation, to try to show flexibility in terms of its use for the coming academic year, as well as flexibility with regard to cancellations and refunds. I am aware that DCU has adopted a flexible model where students can book and pay for accommodation for a number of days and nights, rather than the full semester. I also understand that where a student in DCU accommodation paid a deposit but chose not to take up the accommodation they will have the deposit refunded in full. I will continue to liaise with the sector through the Irish Universities Association to encourage the availability of fair solutions to students in university-owned student accommodation.

Ultimately universities are autonomous under the Universities Act 1997, and it is not within my remit to direct them in relation to the management of their student accommodation, which they have financed from their own resources. Students should engage directly with their institution to see if an arrangement can be reached.

I am very conscious of the impact of the pandemic has had on our students. To ensure the safety of our students and staff in further and higher education, the majority of college will be online for this semester and we will provide financial assistance through a once off €50 million fund. My officials and I are developing the process on how this once-off fund will operate for submission to Government prior to commencement. Further details will be available for students shortly.