Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 November 2022
138. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of buildings that have been purchased by his Department in the past two years to house asylum seekers and refugees; the number of these that are currently in use; and the number of empty buildings and vacant sites that are in the ownership of or that are being rented out by his Department. [59596/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDeputy, since the publication of the White Paper in February 2022, my department has placed a significant focus on delivering the new model of accommodation and supports. A particular focus was placed on establishing the accommodation model including the acquisition of properties.
From January of this year, the Housing Agency, on behalf of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), has sourced and purchased a range of properties across the country. In total 32 properties have been purchased to date.
One of the 32 properties is currently occupied by Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) and it is managed by the Peter McVerry Trust. A process to transition the BOTPs currently living in the accommodation is underway and it is envisaged that the property will be available for International Protection (IP) arrivals from March next year. In regard to the remaining properties which have been purchased, an element of upgrading or renovations is required to make them habitable.
It is planned that these 32 properties will be used to deliver a range of accommodation for vulnerable applicants. My Department and the Housing Agency are currently developing an Expression of Interest (EOI) to commission Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to deliver this supported accommodation. It is planned that the EOI will issue before the end of the year.
I trust this clarifies the matter Deputy.
