Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 December 2023
481. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department provides accommodation to persons granted Labour Market Access Permission; if so, to how many such persons; how much they contribute to the cost of their accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53504/23]
View answerWhen a person asks for asylum at the border of a country, that country’s authorities must examine the application. Those seeking asylum in Ireland must make an application for International Protection (IP). The claim is examined by the International Protection Office (IPO), which falls under the aegis of the Department of Justice.
The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is responsible for the provision of accommodation and related services to IP applicants who wish to accept the offer of accommodation from the Irish State.
This offering includes all meals and utilities. Full access to public medical services is provided and a weekly personal allowance is also paid to each person.
After six months, IP applicants are eligible to work if they have not received a first instance decision on their application. Labour market access was introduced in June 2018 for all applicants who have not had a first decision on their claim within 9 months. In January 2021 a new measure was introduced allowing applicants to access the labour market 6 months after they make their application, and extending their permission to work to 12 months (up from 6 months). Labour market access is a matter for the Department of Justice.
IPAS does not request a contribution from those residing in IPAS accommodation centres.
