Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
337. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Justice the number of international protection applicants who were living outside direct provision in private-rented accommodation at the end of March 2024. [20274/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) under the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is responsible for the provision of accommodation and related services to applicants who wish to accept such services.
I am advised that there are currently 29,456 applicants in IPAS accommodation as of 28 April 2024. I further understand that around 5,546 have been granted some form of status, while the remainder of applicants occupying IPAS accommodation have yet to receive a decision. As the Deputy will appreciate the numbers fluctuate on an ongoing basis.
Applicants for international protection are required to cooperate with the international protection process. This includes ensuring their Temporary Residence Card is in date and their address is up-to-date with the International Protection Office (IPO). While the IPO records each applicant’s address, this does not include categorising their specific accommodation type, whether private or rented.
