Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023
966. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will urgently review a matter (details supplied) reported over the weekend that families have been given only 48 hours’ notice before being moved to the other side of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63803/22]
View answerThe wider situation regarding accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection remains extremely challenging. My Department is now accommodating approximately 70,000 people, including both those fleeing war in Ukraine and International Protection applicants, compared to 7,500 in 2021.
Managing available beds occasionally necessitates moves, in order to ensure accommodation is available for all those who seek it.
In most cases, large-scale moves occur due to contracts ending and my Department endeavours to provide as much advance notice as possible. I am mindful of the impact that all such moves have on those affected.
As of now, the planned move to which the Deputy refers has not occurred. Officials from my Department have been liaising intensively with our implementing partners. Implementing partners have been engaging with Beneficiaries in Dundalk in terms of securing alternative accommodation in the area.
In addition, Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection are entitled to make their own private arrangements and can avail of some supports to do so. Beneficiaries may be able to avail of offers of pledged accommodation. Those wishing to avail of such accommodation should contact the Local Authority in that area that they wish to reside in.
