Minister for Further and Higher, Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD visited Maynooth University to officially open the 116 bed new purpose-built student accommodation, Teach Uí Bhuachalla (Buckley House) Student Accommodation located in central Maynooth – just 2 minutes’ walk from the Campus.
The Buckley house project consists of 109 single en-suite study bedrooms and 7 wheelchair accessible single study bedrooms. They are the first beds delivered under the €100 million Short-Term Activation Programme announced in April 2022. In line with programme requirements, 30% of the beds at Buckley House will be reserved for students from the targeted disadvantaged or underrepresented groups.
Speaking today, Minister Lawless welcomed the achievement stating:
“This is a proud day for our sector. The delivery of Teach Uí Bhuachalla Student Accommodation is not just a milestone for Maynooth University, it marks a significant step forward in how we deliver student housing across Ireland.
“As the first project completed under the Government’s innovative Short-Term Activation Programme, it sets a new benchmark for what can be achieved through strategic investment in purpose-built accommodation that supports student success and well-being. Teach Uí Bhuachalla Student Accommodation offers secure, high-quality housing that enables students to focus on their studies, build lasting connections, and fully engage in university life.
“By reserving places for students from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds, it also shows how public investment can help remove barriers and ensure access to opportunity where it’s needed most.”
Buckley House proudly stands as the first completed initiative under the Short-Term Activation Programme, marking a dynamic step forward in enhancing student accommodation and campus life.
Welcoming the new student accommodation, Maynooth University President Professor Eeva Leinonen said:
“We are delighted to officially open Teach Uí Bhuachalla Student Accommodation, providing 116 high-quality new student beds right in the heart of Maynooth.
“At a time when there is a well-recognised shortage of student accommodation across Ireland, this development reflects our commitment to supporting our students with safe, modern, and accessible housing that enhances their university experience.
“I would like to thank Minister Lawless and the Government for their support in making this important project a reality.”
This opening marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing demand for student housing and reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting access to higher education.
As students begin to move into these new facilities, today’s milestone stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic investment, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future. Further beds under the programme are expected to come on stream over the coming years.
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