Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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37. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the engagement he has had to date with private student accommodation providers to prevent the practice of full-year compulsory leases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9024/24]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien and I have asked our officials to engage on the decision of private student accommodation providers to move to 51-week leases. We recognise that while there may be a market for 51 week leases among some members of the student population, it is not desirable for the vast majority of third level students.

I will be writing to the relevant local authorities to ensure that student accommodation is operating in accordance with specific planning conditions.

Minister O'Brien and I are also examining legislative amendments to increase protections for students.

My officials will engage with the sectoral representatives to establish the rationale for this divergence away from the policy intent of student accommodation and to ensure that the needs of students are central to any solution presented.

Students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions of their lease agreements before entering into same. I would encourage students to contact their provider directly to ascertain the availability of accommodation aligned to their HEIs academic year.

Student specific accommodation is within the remit of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). The RTB provides a confidential dispute resolution service. It is open to a student to make contact with the RTB with any complaints or disputes regarding their accommodation.