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University of Galway and the University’s Students’ Union have issued a fresh joint appeal for homeowners to consider offering a room to rent for students for the new academic year.  During the summer, the University’s Accommodation Advisory Service led the latest annual push to source and expand student rental opportunities in the region, including an awareness campaign on social media and online and a leaflet drop to 57,000 houses in Galway and Clare in August.  To date, this year, 1,768 properties have been advertised on the University’s accommodation portal Studentpad.  University of Galway is urging homeowners to consider offering a room to rent and to register with its Accommodation Advisory Service. The rent-a-room scheme offers homeowners a tax-free income of up to €14,000 per year.   To advertise with the University’s Studentpad or to find out more, homeowners and landlords can visit the information page.  Professor Ciara Meehan, Dean of Students at University of Galway, said: “Our Accommodation Advisory Service remains committed to building the networks with the wider community that our students rely on, and the team is available year round to assist students. But the reality in the housing markets is that there are fewer new landlords and new properties to attract.  “Our University has much to be proud of when it comes to the student experience – our clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities; a community that promotes belonging and celebrates diversity; and our focus on student success. Securing accommodation helps students get off to a strong start and allows them to fully engage with everything we have to offer.  “This year we are making a further direct appeal - If you have ever thought about offering a room, or know someone who might, now is the time to act. Every extra room that we can help offer counts, and your home or your spare room could be the difference between a student commuting long distances and getting the best experience and thriving through university.'  University of Galway Students’ Union President Maisie Hall said: "We are asking anyone in or around Galway city with spare rooms to please consider renting to students. Your room could be the difference between a student dropping out or continuing their studies.”  University of Galway’s dedicated Accommodation Advisory Service first embarked on awareness campaigns in 2022, with a view to providing enhanced supports and advice for students as well as sourcing and expanding new accommodation options.  These campaigns and on-the-ground engagement with stakeholders in the Greater Galway region have led to a doubling of the number of rooms and properties advertised on the Studentpad portal.  The Accommodation Advisory Service also provides guidance to students on what precautions and checks and balances to consider when considering booking and agreeing a lease with a private landlord.  A new mechanism is also being introduced for landlords to verify their properties, giving students an extra level of confidence when renting.  Ends