Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2024
433. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice whether an assessment has been carried out by his Department to determine whether the International Protection Office on Mount Street Lower, Dublin 2, is an appropriate and-or safe place to process applicants for international protection in light of the significant increase in numbers making applications at that office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22558/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can assure you that the health and wellbeing of all people who apply for international protection is of the highest priority to me and my Department, as is the health and safety of the staff working in the International Protection Office (IPO).
The IPO buildings have fire safety certificates which guide the appropriate use of space. The numbers of individuals accessing Timberlay House is actively managed on a daily basis to ensure that it is safe at all times.
Due to an increase in the number of new international protection applications over recent months, since 10 April 2024, the IPO has been operating a second location for registering families accompanied by children at Citywest Convention Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin.
The Citywest facility has greater capacity to process families with children and is equipped to handle large groups of people. A large family waiting area and a child-friendly space is available, alongside private rooms for vulnerability assessments. Staff from Citywest and the IPO are supported by local volunteers. Applicants are assisted by cultural mediators from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Interpreters are on site to work with applicants in completing their forms.
Since the Citywest processing site opened (to Friday, May 17), some 1,007 applicants have made their applications at this location.
Single applicants continue to have their applications processed at Timberlay House, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
