International Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023

Monday, 11 September 2023

Questions (1495)

Carol Nolan

Question:

1495. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if buildings associated with the former St. Conleth's Reformatory School in Daingean, County Offaly are being considered or approved as an accommodation centre for international protection applicants or beneficiaries of temporary protection; if so, the duration of the agreed contract; the number of persons who will be accommodated there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39288/23]

Written answers

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

Since February 2022, my Department has worked intensively as part of the cross-government humanitarian response to assist over 92,000 arrivals fleeing the war in Ukraine that have been granted temporary protection, approximately 80% of whom have sought accommodation from this Department.

My Department is focused on providing immediate, temporary accommodation to people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. This has involved entering into arrangements with over 850 providers including hotels, guest houses and B&Bs, religious properties, with additional capacity operated by voluntary bodies and local authority emergency facilities.

I am advised that my Department has not considered the property to which the Deputy refers at this time.