Motion Re SU-Led Rent Registry

SU-2526-18

Council notes
Many University of Galway students live in private rented houses, flats, digs, or short-term lets, and these arrangements form the bulk of the student housing market in Galway. The modern SU began with campaigns against the poor conditions our members were experiencing in digs, and this motion is in keeping with our housing action roots.

Council also notes
That major reforms to rent regulation and tenancy security are due to apply from March 2026, including nationwide rules on how rent increases operate and changes to tenancy protections. A National Rent Price Register is also being developed by the government, which could be complimented by an SU equivalent.

Council believes
That the Students’ Union must function as the collective voice of students in the housing market, gathering structured evidence, exposing systemic landlord malpractice, and advocating for fair treatment, safe living conditions, and stronger protections for students.

Council mandates

1. That the Students’ Union establish an Accommodation Working Group chaired by the SU President.
2. That the SU President ( in their role as Chief of Campaigns) and the VP for Welfare (with their responsibility for housing) begin the process of creating a Searchable Public Database of anonymous but authenticated students, containing detail such as, but not limited to:
3. Accommodation Type
4. Number of Housemates            
5. Location/Area                
6. Agreement Type                             
7. Contract Term                 
8. Rent amount
9. Utilities Included           
10. Deposit/Fees                   
11. Irish/EU/Non-EU            

That the SU collate the complaints, patterns and experiences gathered from the rent registry and working group into yearly reports.