Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 September 2014
39. Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will make immediate improvements to the living conditions and standards in direct provision hostels for those seeking asylum in the State; if she favours ending the system of direct provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35387/14]
View answerThe Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of my Department is responsible for the accommodation of protection applicants in accordance with the Government policy of direct provision and dispersal. Direct provision provides for full board accommodation supports while a final decision is awaited by a person on their protection or any related leave to remain application. Currently, 4,330 persons are residing in 34 asylum accommodation centres under contract to RIA.
The Deputy will be aware from my answer to Question 35740/14 today as to how the Government intends to give effect to the commitment in the Statement of Government Priorities 2014 – 2016 in relation to the protection process, including direct provision.
The intention in prioritising the International Protection Bill is to reduce the length of time an applicant spends in the protection system through the establishment of a single applications procedure. It would also be my intention that that issue of the length of time that persons spend in direct provision would be addressed by the Working Group which is being established.
The intention more generally will be to focus on achieving improvements in the direct provision system as it currently operates which will bring real benefits to those living there.
