Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
476. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will extend the exemption for those people with status and-or leave to remain in direct provision centres who have been issued transfer letters to lone parents and their children, like has been done for those who are over the age of 65 or with significant medical or welfare needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20923/24]
View answerUnder The European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018, those who have had their application determined are no longer entitled to Material Reception conditions. However, the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) continues to accommodate those with status, until such time that they progress into the community.
All families granted International Protection (IP) or Leave to remain over eighteen months have been given notice that they will be offered alternative emergency accommodation after July 2024 should they be unable to find alternative accommodation before then.
This allows those still in the International Protection process to be accommodated in IPAS Accommodation centres whilst their application is being determined.
It is IPAS policy that those with status do not remain permanently in IPAS accommodation both to encourage integration into local communities and ensure sufficient capacity remains for incoming IP applicants. Given this, only those over the age of 65 or with a significant medical or welfare vulnerability are eligible for additional consideration.
