Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2024
504. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if, in light of the recent briefing note providing an update on temporary emergency accommodation for international protection applicants at a location (details supplied), he will supply certain clarifications. [21228/24]
View answerThere are currently over 29,000 people accommodated in the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) system as a whole (of whom nearly 7,000 are children) compared with approximately 8,700 people at the end of February 2022. Together with Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection displaced by the war in Ukraine, this means that Ireland is now accommodating over 100,000 people in state-supported accommodation
This is a nationwide urgent situation and centres have been opened in all parts of the country. Since January 2023, the Department has brought over 100 properties into use to accommodate those who arrive in Ireland seeking international protection. All of the limited accommodation capacity within the IPAS system is currently being used. While demand continues to outstrip supply, the Department on behalf of the Government, is doing all it can to ensure that families and children have been accommodated.
Abbey Manor Hotel, Dromahair, Co Leitrim has a capacity of 155 and is currently providing accommodation 32 people in family configuration.
The briefing note for this centre originally issued on 7 November 2023, and was reissued on 1 May 2024 after the High Court rejected a challenge to prevent the hotel from being used as IPAS accommodation.
A Community Engagement Team (CET) has been established to engage directly with elected representatives, relevant Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, and other entities and individuals. The purpose of the team is to improve the flow of information regarding arrivals into areas and to help equip local communities with the accurate information required to help them understand the current situation and to assist with the welcome and integration process for new arrivals.
The CET is available to engage with public representatives, the local authority and Local Development Company as required.
