Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

I am glad of the opportunity to respond to certain topics covered recently in the media concerning the OPW and in particular the issue of the acquisition of buildings and lands to house asylum seekers for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform's Reception and Integration Agency.

The RIA asked the OPW to assist in sourcing suitable accommodation facilities for the large numbers of people coming to this country seeking asylum. This presented a significant challenge in meeting the chronic shortage of accommodation for these people. We looked at several solutions including the purchase of lands that were deemed suitable for temporary accommodation, and also buildings or hotels that provided an immediate response. All of the properties purchased for use as accommodation for asylum seekers were acquired at the behest of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the RIA and with their and Department of Finance approval.

It is all very well for programmes like "Prime Time" to investigate Government dealings but it is unfortunate that this programme did not present a broader, balanced view of the subject. Highlighting specific buildings and lands without mentioning the background and many of the reasons behind the purchases of various sites and their current status somewhat sensationalised a very important issue.

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