Cabinet will consider proposals this morning aimed at curbing the shortfall in student accommodation.
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris wants to see the State part-fund the construction of 700 beds in Maynooth, Limerick and Galway.
In exchange for funding those projects, which already have planning permission, a number of rooms will be ringfenced at reduced prices for priority groups.
The Department will also negotiate with DCU and UCD around state supports for new beds.
While money is to be allocated for Technological Universities to prepare plans for them to build student accommodation.
Ministers will also consider expanding the capital devolved grant to allow colleges to repurpose vacant housing to accommodate students.
