Lawless Accuses Sinn Féin Of "Nimbyism" Over Opposition To Student Housing Plan

Tuesday, 3 February 2026 10:43

By Martin Osborne

He said the party called for urgent action on the student accommodation crisis outside Leinster House last month - but is now opposing a proposed 249-bed student housing development in Cabra.

Higher Education Minister and Kildare North Fianna Fail TD James Lawless has accused Sinn Féin of nimbyism over student housing.

He said the party called for urgent action on the student accommodation crisis outside Leinster House last month - but is now opposing a proposed 249-bed student housing development in Cabra.

Last month Sinn Féin demanded action on student housing outside Leinster House. This month they oppose 249 beds in Cabra.@MaryLouMcDonald fighting for students, or only when it’s not in your backyard?#ShinnerLogic #nimby https://t.co/TAXPy1DBOW pic.twitter.com/LIrIElmUML
— James Lawless (@lawlessj) January 30, 2026

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has defended the party’s position, saying that while there is a real need for student housing, the Cabra site would be better used for social and affordable homes.

Planning documents detail how the site is situated within 5km of 36 third level campuses.

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