1485. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the level of interest there has been from HEI's to build PBSA on their lands as per the new Student Accommodation Strategy. [64297/26]

Both I and my officials have met, and continue to engage regularly, with the leadership of our higher education institutions in respect of the Higher Education Institution Student Accommodation Programme. Engagement with the sector has been constructive and encouraging. Institutions are actively exploring opportunities to utilise their lands to support the delivery of much needed student accommodation.

As the Deputy may be aware, my Department is working closely with the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to advance this initiative. Site investigations have concluded on a number of on-campus sites which have been put forward by institutions in support of the programme and further site investigations are planned.