Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
546. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if asylum seekers have to contribute to their accommodation; and the cost to the state per asylum seeker per night. [10032/24]
View answerThe Government is committed to supporting all those seeking refuge in Ireland. The State has a legal obligation to assess the claims of those who seek International Protection (IP), and in that time, to provide accommodation and supports in line with the Recast Reception Conditions Directive (SI 230 of 2018), to those that require it.
The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is responsible for the provision of accommodation and related services to IP applicants who wish to accept an 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.
IPAS does not request a contribution from IP applicants residing in IPAS accommodation centres.
The total spend for International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) accommodation at year end 2023, was €640,064,470, with 26,279 residents accommodated at 31 December 2023. The cost includes all accommodation and related costs, including transport, facilities management and other related expenditure.
The average cost of accommodating an IP applicant in IPAS accommodation is currently €76.80 per night.
