Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. It is important that we make the time to discuss this important matter and that he is here to elaborate on the State's response. Unfortunately, it happens in the context of small groups of people intentionally spreading fear and discord focused on the East Wall. It may be important to highlight that. Those far-right agitators spouting hate and misinformation are always looking for those opportunities. Senator Ruane highlighted well how sometimes we can fall prey to those lies and prejudices. It is important to call them out. These groups do not represent the vast majority of people in Ireland or the East Wall community.

It is also important to highlight that to be supportive of people angry with the state of housing, waiting lists and all those issues is one thing but we need to condemn in the strongest terms anyone who blames refugees or asylum seekers for any of our problems. If people want to protest, they should come to Leinster House and express their opinions to decision-makers instead of intimidating those who have come to the State seeking safety.

We all acknowledge that the Ukrainian crisis has been sudden and unprecedented and it has brought nearly 50,000 displaced people into Ireland. That has, in essence, been left for the Department, the Minister and his officials to deal with. From the outside looking in, it seems like there should be more hands on deck. I am interested to know from them all if more Departments need to be more engaged on this issue.

The Minister stated in his opening contribution how significant it is if the Department loses existing accommodation and that without hotels, the Department would have had to stop taking people in March. Are there plans in place for the tourism season when presumably many hotels will want to go back to that kind of business? What is the feeling in the Department on that?

Last month, the Irish Refugee Council report on the accommodation crisis provided a comprehensive analysis and recommendations on many issues that we are discussing. The council pointed out that vulnerable people, including children, are being put in centres that are unfit for purpose. What measures are being put in place to address the health and safety and child protection risks? The council called for the appointment of an inspector of emergency transit and tent accommodation. What are the Minister's thoughts on that?

The council highlighted the need for a refugee response director and a supporting communications plan to convey and oversee logistics, co-ordinate action across Departments and to provide clear communication with the public. There is a glaring need for such a plan, especially concerning the situation in East Wall at present. Many issues could probably be avoided with timely communication. I agree with Senator Ruane that this is not about consultation, but communication. The Minister cited an extensive leaflet drop but, presumably, that is not the only measure he is looking at. What is on the leaflets? If I have time, I will respond with questions.