Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2015
325. Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an analysis of an area is conducted on medical services, public transport, potential isolation and the percentage change in the population prior to the introduction of refugees and asylum seekers into that area and if due consideration should be given to such an analysis. [44233/15]
View answerThe Reception & Integration Agency (RIA) is responsible for the accommodation of asylum seekers while their application for protection is being processed. RIA also procures suitable premises on behalf of the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration for the accommodation of refugees for approximately 8-10 weeks when they first arrive in the State and before they move to their permanent homes in locations throughout the State. Any potential centre is assessed from a number of perspectives including access to local amenities and the provision of services.
The numbers of persons making application for asylum has risen in recent years as shown in the following table:
|
Year |
Applications |
% increase on previous year |
|
2013 |
946 |
- 10.5% |
|
2014 |
1448 |
+ 53% |
The current projections for applications in 2015 are approximately 3,330. This figure represents an increase of 130% on 2014 applications and over 252% increase on 2013.
RIA monitors its accommodation requirements on an ongoing basis and, to ensure best value for money, operates a 'just in time' system of contracting-in accommodation as required.
This model and approach has been operated by RIA since its establishment and has proven to be extremely successful in the establishment of accommodation centres to date. No person seeking accommodation has ever been left without the provision of that service. Communities across the country have welcomed the establishment of these centres and have been engaged in the provision of local integration services to residents in those centres. I am confident that people in Ireland will continue to welcome into their communities those who are the most vulnerable and most in need of protection.
It is my understanding that the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP), in establishing Emergency Reception and Orientation Centres (EROCs) will also take account of a range of pertinent factors in determining the suitability or otherwise of a premises as a possible EROC. Under the relevant EU measures Ireland has agreed to relocate approximately 2,600 persons to Ireland over a two year period. The IRPP are cognisant of the fact that this particular cohort of persons are considered highly likely to obtain refugee status in a short period of time and will not be residing in EROCs for a lengthy period of time. Accordingly, some of the factors identified by the Deputy are not as relevant for this group of persons. The Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, together with colleagues in the City and County Managers Association, are considering how best to address the accommodation needs of this cohort once they obtain refugee status and are dispersed across the community, again taking account of a range of relevant factors. Their report is not yet finalised but they are expected to make a report in due course to the Taskforce established by the Government to oversee the IRPP.
