Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan, has called on universities across the country to work with students to address student accommodation issues, rather than acting against their interests.
Deputy McGreehan this week chaired a meeting of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, where presidents of university student unions outlined the severe pressures faced by students seeking accommodation.
Speaking after the committee meeting, Deputy McGreehan said, “This week I chaired the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Further and Higher Education and Research, where I and other members heard directly from student leaders about the ongoing struggles to secure affordable accommodation.
She said, “The introduction of Rent Pressure Zones by Minister James Browne is a welcome step that will help stabilise the wider housing sector, but universities themselves must also be part of the solution. We need a unified approach from both government and higher education institutions if we are to tackle this issue effectively.”
Throughout the committee session, members heard accounts of the challenges students face in securing housing. Deputy McGreehan highlighted Ireland’s proud record in education and stressed the urgent need to prioritise students and reduce the stress on them and their families.
“Some of the situations described to us are simply shocking,” she continued. “Rents being charged to students are unfair and unsustainable. Many are forced to compete with the private rental market, endure long commutes, or in extreme cases sleep in their cars. This is unacceptable in a country that prides itself on its world-class education system.”
Deputy McGreehan reaffirmed her commitment to working with both the Minister for Further and Higher Education and university leaders to secure meaningful change.
“I want students to know that their concerns are being heard by me, by the Minister, and by this government. Minister Lawless has already written to DCU asking them to reconsider recent rent hikes, which shows that action is being taken. We also need every university to engage constructively and recognise their responsibility to their students.
She concluded: “Fianna Fáil is the party of education. I will continue to work tirelessly with the Minister and with universities to ensure student voices are heard and that tangible, practical solutions are delivered to ease the burden on students and their families.”
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
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