Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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This motion is welcome and I do not see any difficulties in supporting it. The motion also provides the opportunity to address some of the challenges highlighted in the report of the Irish Refugee Council. I am sure the Minister of State is as concerned as I am about the issues highlighted in the report. According to figures for September 2012, a total of 5,098 people are residing in direct provision centres, of whom 1,789 are children. They are provided with food and shelter and an allowance of €19.10 per week and €9.60 per child. We are all aware of the nonsense stories about free haircuts and fancy cars. These people are living in overcrowded conditions. The report noted one case of a family of five confined to a single room over a period of two years. The Irish Refugee Council is speaking out about this situation. Also, respected public figures such as the chief executive of Barnardos, Fergus Finlay, and Ms Justice Catherine McGuinness have said this is a serious case of child abuse and neglect and is not in line with the European Convention on Human Rights. The children's referendum has been passed. It is hoped that this additional funding will allow us to address these issues. I appeal to the Minister of State to use this opportunity.