International Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2023

Wednesday, 3 May 2023

Questions (354)

Colm Burke

Question:

354. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will clarify the current position in respect of properties acquired in Cork city by his Department or by companies or organisations working with his Department in the provision of accommodation for asylum seekers, or refugees from Ukraine; if he will set out in full the number of properties currently being used; the number of properties which are vacant but which shortly will come in to use; the total number of asylum seekers/refugees now provided with accommodation in Cork city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20481/23]

Written answers

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

I am advised by my officials that the Ukraine Crisis Temporary Emergency Team (UCTAT) within my Department has accommodated a total of 1,068 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection in 22 properties in the Cork City Council Local Authority Area.

There are currently 11 properties in use by the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS), with 1,380 International Protection Applicants (IPAs) being accommodated in County Cork, 576 of which are residing in Cork City.

A further 6 properties are currently under consideration in County Cork by the Department. Full assessments of these properties are underway at present, and, if a contract is agreed, it is hoped that these properties can be brought into use.

I am further advised that vacant properties fall within the remit of the Department of Housing. Local Government and Heritage and that the relevant Local Authority is the appropriate contact point regarding such information.