Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent)

Perfect. I also met with representatives from the USI. They have given us a number of briefings over the past two years or so. They pointed to the fact they have waited three years for the publication of the national student accommodation strategy. I also appreciate the Minister is new in the role, but I point to the fact this issue is damaging relationships between students and the Government. The union had to debate whether to attend a cost-of-education event organised by the Department of higher education because, in its representatives' words, they are sick of being invited to meetings and events, saying what students need, and then seeing no real change or action. That is a huge concern to me.

In a parliamentary response in February, I was told the Higher Education Authority, HEA, is to undertake a feasibility study for regional areas, including Clare. Is there any update on where we are with that?

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