Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 January 2025
1218. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of times gardaí have been called to the City West accommodation facility in 2023 and 2024 in response to threatening or abusive behaviour from international protection applicants towards staff members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1191/25]
View answerMy Department initially commenced use of the Citywest Conference Centre in March 2022.
The Citywest Transit Hub (CWTH) has two separate functions: it acts as a cross-Governmental, single administrative processing point for those fleeing the war in Ukraine; and it provides emergency accommodation international protection applicants on arrival into the State.
At no time during the years 2023 and 2024, was An Garda Síochána (AGS) called to CWTH in relation to threatening or abusive behaviour by international protection applicants to any Departmental staff members. On a single occasion during the years 2023 and 2024, the assistance of AGS was requested in relation to an issue of that nature toward a contracted service employee.
The support of AGS at CWTH is very much appreciated by the Department. AGS regularly visit CWTH as part of the community policing programme. They have also attended CWTH to assist security officers and to investigate minor crimes.
I trust the above is helpful.
