'AMLÉ' (Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn) is the new name for the Union of Students in Ireland. It's a direct translation.
Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (AMLÉ) is once again seeing first hand the reality of Ireland’s accommodation crisis. Whilst students anticipate CAO offers and a return to learning, a greater issue hangs overhead. Students’ Unions across the country are resorting to running “Digs Drives”, calling out to residents in their local area in the hopes that a spare box room could turn into a home for a student this academic year.
The accommodation crisis is one that impacts all HEI’s across Ireland. Third level institutions across the country have reported significant issues from their student populations in regards to acquiring sustainable, affordable student accommodation.
In the Technological University of the Shannon, 1 out of every 8 students studying there have found themselves relying on digs. Despite this, 72% of those living in digs have no contract with their digs owner, meaning they can be kicked out on a day’s notice.
In the University of Galway, 78% of students say they have struggled in finding accommodation.
In Dublin City University, 62% of students are working in excess of 11 hours a week, and despite this, 35% of students do not have sufficient funding to cover their weekly costs.
AMLÉ Vice President for Welfare, Emma Monahan says “The student accommodation crisis is continuing to affect students nationwide, leading to higher levels of students commuting long hours, working full time jobs to afford their basic needs and missing out on some of the most valuable aspects of their time in higher education. No student on this island should have to worry about whether or not they will have a safe place to sleep at night. We in AMLÉ encourage all homeowners who maybe have the capacity to offer spare rooms in their homes to students.”
AMLÉ President Bryan O’Mahony says “The student accommodation crisis in Ireland is more than just numbers — it’s about real young people facing impossible choices every day. It is yet another barrier put in front of students trying to pursue higher education. By opening a spare room, homeowners can make a powerful difference, turning a space into a home and hope for students striving to build their futures.”
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn Email: president@amle.ie Phone: +353 086 033 3942 Website: www.amle.ie