Vol. 512 No. 4
38 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Defence the discussions, if any, he has had with the Department of the Environment and Local Government regarding the ongoing need to provide shelter for the homeless in Dublin; if facilities exist which could be utilised for this purpose in view of the need to recognise the suffering of homeless persons at this time of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22501/99]
I have had no discussions with the Department of the Environment and Local Government concerning the need for the provision of shelter for the homeless in Dublin. There is no surplus military or civil defence accommodation in the Dublin area which could be utilised for this purpose.
My Department is involved in ongoing discussions relating to the provision of accommodation for asylum seekers and refugees both in Dublin and other parts of the country. My policy is to be as helpful as possible in this matter.
