Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2024
544. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to detail the current approach to consulting with communities where accommodation for asylum seekers is to be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23006/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra545. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to detail the record of consultation that has taken place with communities where accommodation for asylum seekers was to be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23007/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra546. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth what resources have been allocated towards consultation with communities where accommodation for asylum seekers is to be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23008/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 544 to 546, inclusive, together.
The Community Engagement Team (CET) engages directly with elected representatives, relevant Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, and other entities and individuals to ensure a good flow of information regarding the opening of accommodation centres and related issues.
The purpose of the team is to improve the flow of information regarding arrivals into areas and to help equip local communities with the accurate information required to help them understand the current situation and to assist with the welcome and integration process for new arrivals.
It consists of a National Lead on Civic Engagement, two additional team members to support the on-the-ground engagement (part-time basis) and a small administrative team.
The team does not have a role in the procurement of premises or the allocation of new arrivals and engages once accommodation centres have been signed off for opening by DCEDIY teams.
It should be noted that the CET are only activated for openings which need additional support and are agreed with IPAS Team, Ukrainian Team and Ministers' offices. The openings which the Team support can also be selected if requested by a public representative or a local community leader and it is deemed appropriate.
It is acknowledged that different sites will have different requirements and this approach, while offering a standard process for quality engagement and communication can be adapted depending on individual circumstances.
The team is also engaging with other stakeholders outside of immediate openings of centres to build relationships and networks with key groups, this includes meetings with Community Response Fora, Local Development Companies and other NGOs. The team engages with central government Departments and local services to provide information to assist with planning and activation of services.
72 briefs have been issued to stakeholders by the CET up to 17 May. Approximately 35 active engagements have taken place with a number currently underway.
