Ryan O'Meara (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
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233. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to increase delivery of student accommodation in Thurles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22077/26]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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I recently published the National Student Accommodation Strategy 2026–2035, which sets out a clear pathway to making higher education more accessible by addressing two critical challenges: accommodation supply and viability, and affordability.

The emerging demand for Student Accommodation is substantial with an estimated need of 42,000 student beds by 2035.

To address supply and viability the strategy sets out a balanced approach including: -

• The development of a framework, in line with relevant Departmental consents, to enable Technological Universities to enter into nomination agreements in a practical, scalable way that has already been proven internationally.
• Expansion of the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme (TSSAP) to Traditional Universities to grow the existing pipeline of proposals under development on a phased basis in partnership with private developers.
• Unlocking and preparation of strategic sites for development of PBSA will also be considered subject to State Aid Clearance.
• Rent a Room options will be promoted to enhance supply as a flexible and valuable source of additional accommodation for students.