Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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112. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his engagement with the Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage concerning the shortage of accommodation for students attending third level courses. [51319/22]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I meet frequently with students both through regular engagements with the USI and on visits around the country and I know the pressures they face, particularly in relation to securing affordable accommodation.

As part of Budget 2023, my colleague the Minister for Finance has introduced a new Rent Tax Credit for people who pay for private rented accommodation. I have spoken to Minister Donohoe and I understand that the Department of Finance are continuing to consider issues in relation to application of this tax credit. This is an area of significant complexity and careful consideration is required.

It is important to look at Budget measures in the round. This Budget has done lots to support people facing cost of living pressures, including increasing the standard tax income band. There is a substantial cost-of-living package for students including €1,000 state financial support towards the student contribution fee for higher education students eligible for the free fees initiative this academic year.

I am also progressing significant work on a new student accommodation policy which would see, for the first time, state investment in the development of student accommodation. I secured Government support to develop a policy to assist with the cost of building student accommodation. I have established a dedicated Unit in the Department to lead on this work in consultation with the HEA, and we will be bringing proposals to Government next month on this.