Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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1371. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to urgently address the shortfall in student accommodation countrywide and ensure that all available student accommodation is being used for that purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2336/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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A new student accommodation strategy is in development following Government approval of the long-term policy in 2024. The policy aims to increase supply of state supported student accommodation, reduce the cost of delivery through development of standardised design guidance, promote efficient use of existing building stock through refurbishment and an examination of vacancy, while supporting balanced regional development through the Technological University (TU) feasibility study.

The TU feasibility study is progressing in tandem with the standardised design study for student accommodation, to enable a viable design model for state supported student accommodation based on regional needs and feasibility assessments.

The outcomes of these studies will provide a framework of delivery models and funding options to inform the new strategy.

In 2023, following extensive engagement, my Department and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) agreed a protocol on the use of student accommodation for International Protection and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection. I am aware of the complexity of the accommodation demands across the two policy areas, however, it is imperative that student accommodation is retained and made available for student use during the academic year. My Department and I will continue to engage and work alongside the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration in relation to this matter.