Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chair and welcome the Minister of State. I was not satisfied with the response I received previously from the other Minister of State on this. All of us know there are huge issues with Traveller accommodation. I read out some direct quotes from children living in very poor conditions in Traveller-specific accommodation. Those were taken from a report done by the Ombudsman for Children. The status quo is not in any way acceptable and this amendment is needed. I was not convinced by the other Minister of State's response and his saying this is not needed. We have seen some deplorable conditions and the effects of those. I was talking about the impact on homelessness, that is, how Travellers are more exposed and have a higher risk of homelessness than the general population. I urge the Minister of State to accept my amendments on Traveller accommodation.