Vol. 530 No. 1
91 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the system of direct provision as operated for asylum seekers is equitable, fair and humane; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1442/01]
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 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 planning. It is widely accepted that a harmonised approach to asylum seekers is by far the best approach and the system of direct provision represents a fair and effective means of meeting the basic needs of asylum seekers.
Question No. 92 answered with Question No. 30.
