Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 30 Nov 2000

Vol. 527 No. 2

Written Answers. - Asylum Applications.

Liam Lawlor

Question:

137 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the implementation of direct provision for asylum seekers places persons in that situation in a disadvantaged or marginalised position; if direct provision is in line with best practice in other EU countries; if direct provision is appropriate having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights in view of the assertions by FLAC (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28050/00]

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

I do not accept that direct provision places asylum seekers in a disadvantaged or marginalised position.

Direct provision is the means by which the State discharges its obligations under international law and the Constitution to provide for the basic requirements of asylum seekers. For the most part, it represents a cashless system with the State assuming responsibility for providing suitable accommodation on a full board basis. Reduced allowances under the supplementary welfare allowances – SWA – scheme are paid to take account of the full board accommodation provided. Asylum seekers can also apply for exceptional needs payments under the SWA scheme.

Subject to satisfying a means test, asylum seekers are also entitled to medical cards. They are entitled to the same health services as Irish medical card holders and the children of asylum seekers can avail of free primary and secondary education.

The introduction of direct provision on 10 April 2000 brought Ireland into line with other member states of the European Union, including the United Kingdom, which introduced direct provision on 1 April last, and followed thorough investigation and careful planning. It is widely accepted that a harmonised approach to asylum seekers is by far the best approach and I believe the system of direct provision represents a fair and effective means of meeting the basic needs of asylum seekers.