Minister Lawless says the priority is to "support students" and improve access to the full college experience.
Higher Education Minister and Kildare North TD James Lawless is defending proposals that could see colleges asked to condense student timetables to reduce commuting.
The Government is facing criticism over the draft plans, which would examine whether lectures could be grouped into fewer days to ease travel pressures.
Minister Lawless says the priority is to "support students" and improve access to the full college experience.
He says the measure is just one option under consideration as part of a wider strategy.
Minister Lawless says the focus remains on delivering more accommodation.
He said the Government is developing a new student accommodation plan aimed at delivering up to 42,000 new beds nationwide over the next decade.
However, critics, including Labour Senator Laura Harmon, say regular access to campus life remains essential for students.
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