Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
376. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons seeking international protection who are housed in emergency accommodation in County Monaghan; the number of settings concerned; the location of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9201/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are currently 234 persons seeking international protection staying in five emergency locations in County Monaghan. Additionally, St. Patrick's Accommodation Centre, outside Monaghan Town, currently accommodates 264 persons.
My Department does not generally disclose the location of emergency accommodation centres in order to protect the identity of international protection applicants and other private guests, as such premises are often open to the public. While this may not generally be the case at the present time, as we have moved to ensure that such premises only accommodate international protection applicants to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission, the premises may again return to mixed use once current restrictions are eased further.
Every effort is being made by my Department to re-accommodate applicants from emergency locations in hotels and guesthouses to a dedicated accommodation centre as quickly as possible, where we can provide the full range of State services and supports.
A public procurement tender process for designated accommodation centres in the Borders Region is currently ongoing. The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot comment on an ongoing tender process.
