As outlined in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 305 of the 20th November 2018, my Department agreed with the contractor running the centre to arrange overnight accommodation/rest and comfort breaks for those travelling to Dublin at the accommodation centre that they currently run in Sligo for anyone attending interviews in the International Protection Office or indeed accessing any other state services in Dublin.
Since then, the premises in County Donegal, has been the subject of an arson attack, and I want to take this opportunity to reiterate my condemnation of that attack.
Until a full assessment of the damage has been carried out, the Department won’t be able to decide on the impact of any delay that may arise from this incident. A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the events that took place there and the level of any damage caused.
Following that review, matters will be reassessed as necessary. We remain committed to working with the local community to ensure that the best possible support is provided to those seeking international protection. And indeed I was encouraged by the response of the community in Moville to the fire, which was very tangible evidence of the welcome shown by people in Donegal and all over Ireland to international protection applicants.
As regards the planning of overnight stays in Sligo, bed spaces will be sourced from within existing agreed capacity. The latest occupancy returns from Globe House Accommodation Centre in Sligo shows an agreed capacity of 218 and 212 residents. It should be noted that the occupancy levels vary and are reported to the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) on a weekly basis. RIA will continue to monitor vacancies at Globe House with a view to facilitating residents from Moville who need to travel.
The Department will also source overnight accommodation in Dublin if required and the RIA will liaise with the International Protection Office to arrange for grouped interview appointment times so that residents of the Caisleán Mara can travel together.
I have requested the Department to examine the logistical and resource implications to establish if such business could be carried out from remote locations.
