Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Apr 2000

Vol. 518 No. 2

Written Answers. - Asylum Applications.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

14 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount payable to hotel owners per week to cover accommodation and meals for asylum seekers; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a company (details supplied) has been attempting to purchase block booking accommodation for asylum seekers; if his Department has any dealings with this company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11052/00]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

The Directorate for Refugee and Asylum Support Services, which was established in November 1999 under the aegis of my Department, is responsible, inter alia, for meeting the accommodation needs of asylum seekers. There are two rates payable to owners of hotels and guesthouses for full board accommodation for asylum seekers – £157.50 including VAT per adult per week or £189.00 including VAT per adult per week. The rate applicable depends on the overall standard of the accommodation and facilities provided.

With regard to the company to which the Deputy refers, I wish to emphasise that it does not operate on behalf of the directorate. An approach was made to the directorate on the 23 February, 2000 by the company which indicated that it could supply block booked accommodation for asylum seekers outside Dublin. To date, however, no firm proposal has been received by the directorate.