The Union of Students in Ireland – The Student Accommodation Bill
On Thursday, 25th February, USI launched the Student Accommodation Bill campaign alongside the bill’s proposing political parties: Sinn Fein, Social Democrats, Labour Party, Solidarity-PBP/Rise, Independents for Change. The bill will be launched outside of Ireland’s parliament, Leinster House.
Back in the Spring and Autumn of 2020, students, families and Students’ Unions around the country faced an enormous challenge. Many students found themselves unable to access their accommodation due to public health measure, which was in place because of COVID-19. Unfortunately, in many cases, these students were also denied rent refunds for unused accommodation. This bill would ensure specific provisions that if a student found themselves in that position, due to public health guidance or COVID-19 legislation, the landlord would be obligated to return or repay rent and other associates costs/charges.
This passing of this Student Accommodation Bill would ensure that students renters are better protected, and it would be a big win for ensuring better student renter rights.
USI will be engaging with politicians to support the Bill and mobilise the student movement in Ireland to engage and speak with their representatives, emphasising their need for the bill to be passed.
#EducationForAll #PassTheUSIBill