Richard O'Donoghue (Limerick County, Independent)

I thank the Minister of State. However, we must make sure it is done sooner rather than later. The arrangements must be in place in time for the next college year. We do not want this happening to students. They work long and hard when they are in college. They should not have to pay for their accommodation for 12 months of the year. It is one thing for the legislation to be introduced next week. It is another thing to have it enacted and enforced in time for the new college year. The Government can say at any time that something will be done next week. By the time legislation goes through and is enacted, it could be 12 months or two years down the line. The legislation the Minister of State referred to needs to be enacted and enforced in time to ensure no student or parent has the financial burden of having to pay rent for a full 12 months when the accommodation is only needed for nine months.

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