Labour Accuse Uni's Of 'Taking Advantage Of Housing Crisis'

Universities have been accused of "taking advantage of the housing crisis" following reports of rent-increased at university-owned student accommodation.

Making the criticism, Labour Party Education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said: "Third-level institutions across the country are using the housing crisis as a way to make a quick buck.

"The housing crisis we are now facing is becoming a prevalent feature in Irish society and these student accommodation companies are exploiting this crisis to charge extortionate accommodation fees.

"We know through constant engagement with student representatives and media reports today that many third level institutions are raising prices of college-owned student accommodation. It is completely unacceptable to expect students and their families to pay between double and triple the annual college fee upfront for student accommodation.

"We are coming close to the time of year when panic around student housing sets in. These private student housing providers are manipulating students and especially their parents who want to ensure that their children are in good quality accommodation when they move away for college.

"Labour's proposal for State-led developments would mean providing affordable student accommodation and would take the seasonal pressure off the rental market. Students should not have to spend their entire summer struggling to find an affordable option for accommodation but should be taking time to get ready for the academic year ahead. They, like all renters, deserve certainty of tenancy and affordability."