Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

That is no comfort at all to those who find themselves in such centres for inordinate periods. We could all agree that there is some toleration for short-stay needs but it is completely and wholly inappropriate for long stays. I ask that, on behalf of the committee, that the Minister explores the issue that I have indicated. The issue was brought to my attention and I have only recently received a response from him a to parliamentary question regarding one such instance. The reply does not go beyond a limited provision of the information that I have sought. I ask that the Minister checks because the reference to subcontracting suggests that the situation is getting worse rather than better. The option is open to people who have no specific involvement and responsibilities to block-book rooms in hotels over specific periods. Then we find that perhaps RIA is doing business with them but the point of contact is with these individuals. I notice that all sorts of heads have nodded as I look from my left to right and right to left. If it is not RIA, then the Minister can refer to his reply to my parliamentary question that he furnished only this week, or perhaps at the end of last week, check the details of that specific case and revert to me and advise on how that option is functioning when between 70 and 80 people are in a rural hotel with next to no facilities and no access to public transport. That does not tick the box in terms of serious consideration of what those unfortunate people require.