Question:
148 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the types of accommodation which are provided by his Department to asylum seekers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22542/01]
Written Answers. - Asylum Seeker Accommodation.
The Reception and Integration Agency – RIA – is responsible, inter alia, for meeting the accommodation needs of asylum seekers under the system of direct provision. The RIA currently has a nationwide portfolio of 85 properties for this purpose. These properties comprise former convents, guesthouses, hotels, bed and breakfast facilities, hostels, nursing homes as well as mobile homes parked on State-owned sites and a former holiday centre. In addition, a number of system-built buildings, that is, demountable prefabricated units, are currently being constructed for the purpose of providing accommodation for asylum seekers.