Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022
745. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth his views on matters relating to houses pledged for refugees (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54295/22]
View answerI can confirm that to date 4,718 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) have been housed in 1,902 pledged accommodation settings and this figure continues to increase on a weekly basis. Every effort has been made to ensure offers are taken up once they are suitable and necessary vetting procedures are complete.
Once necessary checks are complete, suitable pledges are placed with NGO implementing partners and Local Authorities for activation, which involves matching them with suitable BOTPs. In some cases, identification of a suitable match may take some time.
Regarding the matter raised, pledges from Kerry which have been assessed as available for activation are managed by Kerry County Council, supported by the Peter McVerry Trust, to match pledges to suitable Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.
I am advised by my officials that every effort is being made to activate the remaining pledges that are available for placement of BOTPs and to ensure that the necessary inspection procedures are completed by Local Authorities. The process of placing people in pledged accommodation does take time, but it is a complex process and needs to be conducted correctly for the safety and security of those fleeing. Vetting is a matter for An Garda Síochána and, where applicable, will be arranged by the Irish Red Cross.
I have been assured that all persons who pledged accommodation have been contacted. Anyone who pledged accommodation and believes they did not receive any follow up may contact the Irish Red Cross.
