Some Progress for Students, But ‘Like the Previous Government, Their Programme Stays the Same’ – USI Calls for More Urgent Action on Housing and Mental Health
January 17, 2025 | Featured, RELEASES, USI News
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has welcomed some of the pledges made in the new Programme for Government, particularly in relation to financial support for students and the development of apprenticeship pathways. However, the union has expressed concern that many of the critical issues facing students—particularly housing, mental health services, and the cost of education—remain insufficiently addressed, with the Programme largely mirroring the previous government’s approach.
Chris Clifford, USI President, said: “While we acknowledge the government’s commitment to some important initiatives, such as the Second Chance policy and the increase in maintenance grants, we remain concerned that their approach to key issues like student housing and mental health support is largely unchanged much like the government. Many students continue to face the same challenges they have for years, and more urgent, concrete action is needed.”
Housing remains a top priority for USI, with many students struggling to find affordable and secure accommodation in cities and towns across Ireland. The government’s promise to develop more student accommodation is welcome, but USI believes that these plans need to be accelerated to provide immediate relief. Students in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway are still grappling with high rents and a shortage of suitable housing, with many resorting to sofa surfing, living in cars, or staying in overcrowded conditions.
“We appreciate the government’s commitment to a multi-annual plan for student accommodation, but we need more immediate solutions. Too many students are living in insecure, inadequate housing situations, and it’s simply not sustainable,” Clifford said. “In addition to this, student landlords and private accommodation providers need to be held to higher standards to ensure that all students are housed safely and fairly.”
On the issue of financial support, USI welcomed the increase in maintenance grants and the reform of SUSI, as well as the commitment to explore a placement grant for students undertaking mandatory placements. However, the union feels that these steps are only part of the solution. The Student Contribution Fee, which remains a significant financial burden for many students, needs to be reduced further, and additional financial support should be considered for those facing hidden costs like transport, textbooks, and living expenses.
“While we welcome the government’s efforts to increase maintenance grants, the Student Contribution Fee remains a serious challenge for many students and their families. It’s important that the government moves forward with a clear plan to significantly reduce these fees in a way that is sustainable for students and the state,” Clifford added.
The government’s commitment to mental health support is another area where USI has raised concerns. While the mental health crisis among students continues to grow, the government’s plans do not go far enough to ensure adequate support for all students in need. Access to mental health services remains a key issue, with students often facing long wait times or lack of availability of resources.
“We are pleased to see the government’s recognition of mental health as a priority, but students need real, actionable solutions. We need increased funding for on-campus services, more accessible care, and long-term strategies that address mental health issues before they become crises,” said Clifford. “The government needs to do more to ensure that every student has access to the care and support they need when they need it.”
USI did acknowledge some positive steps in the Programme for Government, such as the Second Chance initiative, which allows students who are repeating a year or changing courses to access the Free Fees Initiative without additional costs. The union also welcomed the government’s promise to continue funding the Student Assistance Fund, and its commitment to expand apprenticeship pathways as an alternative to traditional third-level education.
“We see these as positive developments that will help students in specific situations. However, we need the government to follow through with stronger commitments on housing, mental health, and affordability for all students,” said Clifford. “USI remains committed to working with the government and stakeholders across the education sector to ensure that students’ voices are heard and that the needs of students across Ireland are met.”
USI has committed to continuing its advocacy for greater support for students in the upcoming months and will continue to work with the government to ensure that education remains accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all students.
Contact:
Union of Students in Ireland
Email: pr@usi.ie
Phone: +353 1 234 5678