Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
1070. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on the status of a facility (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36797/23]
View answerDeputy, a new premises briefing regarding Eblana Avenue was circulated to local representatives with reference to the use of this property on 4 May 2023. The briefing provided information on the status of the facility and the resources available to residents.
The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) commenced use of this property on 3 July 2023 and 155 international protection applicants (IPAs) are currently being accommodated there.
IPAS carries out resident clinics at all new and existing accommodation locations and work with a number of NGOs who provide support to residents in the form of clinics. In addition, there is a DCEDIY funded confidential NGO run helpline to assist with any queries that residents may have, as well as an IPAS Helpdesk manned by Department officials.
IPAS have confirmed that a Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) clinic took place at the location in the week beginning 17 July and that there are plans to host a joint JRS/IPAS resident clinic later this week.
In terms of access to State services, an adult IPAS resident receives an allowance of €38.80 per week and is entitled to access mainstream health services. IPAs residing in IPAS accommodation are entitled to a medical card.
IPAs are entitled to apply for permission to access the labour market after six months in the State and can avail of English language classes from the local Education Training Board.
Once labour market access has been granted, IPAs can attend further education and training courses to assist in their upskilling.
Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses are also often focused on directly developing skills for employment and applicants are provided access will also be provided to employer networks to make applicants aware of available opportunities and to raise employer awareness of applicants’ skills and qualifications.
