Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

Go raibh maith agat, a Leas-Cheann Comhairle. We have had two debates, previously and now, where there has been a poor turnout of Deputies.

I thank the Deputies who were here for their contributions on this Bill. I will reflect on some of the comments made, taking on board the points made about the challenges facing students. I again thank representatives of the various student organisations in the Gallery for their work on this Bill.

As I stated in my opening speech, the Government is not opposing the Bill. We see merit in discussing it further and bringing it to Committee Stage. That is noted. Deputy Sherlock referred to my opening contribution in terms of reassuring the market. The market we are talking about comprises families who rent rooms for additional income. As was stated, there is sometimes a very good relationship between students and those renting rooms. This is about ensuring that it is a good experience and making it a better experience, which the Deputy said, for students and those renting rooms. The Government is mindful to avoid any unintended consequences in the Bill, and that is why we are happy to discuss it further on Committee Stage.

On the points raised by Deputy O'Callaghan, we are not arguing against regulation; we are merely pointing out deficiencies in the Bill and its legal elements. It is important to state that. I agree with the Deputy on the importance of regulation generally. That is why the RTB exists for the rental sector in general.

The supply issue under Housing for All was raised, in respect of 1,000 new units that are much-needed in the system. I assume the report to which Deputy O'Callaghan referred was the student accommodation survey, which I referenced. Out of the 28,000 students who responded, which is approximately 10% of the student population, 19% stated that their accommodation was digs. It is not about trying to look at the market; rather, it is about trying to ensure that there is a good experience for those renting. We do not want to reduce that supply. We want to make sure the supply stays in the system and grows, which is important.

I take on board the points made on the reasonable use of household facilities, access to facilities in households, the entitlement to locked doors in room rentals and general issues raised by Deputies. I reiterate that we will again advertise the very good rent-a-room scheme, which has been quite successful and has helped to address issues of student accommodation in the short term in many parts of the country. These are important points. I again thank all of the Deputies for their contributions. Deputies may want to make contributions now.

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