Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Can I make a suggestion? The commitment in the programme for Government is very clear. The new legislation is absolutely necessary and required and, I hope, will be fit for purpose. All things being equal, that should reduce the waiting time for applicants, all of which would be tremendously welcome. That point has been well made. Given that the commitment is to move away from direct provision, not just to reduce the numbers in direct provision, would it not be wise for the Department to consider what the alternative model might look like, its shape, and the cost implications?

I do not get the sense the Minister has had that conversation or planned that with the Secretary General.