David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is correct. As I stated, we have had a very large increase on the number of people looking for international protection this year. We have sought expressions of interest from parties interested in providing accommodation and related services. A combination of factors have led to this, including the rising demand for bed spaces and the high volume of residents who have status who continue to live in accommodation centres. There are 855 persons with permission to remain residing in accommodations as of 25 September. The State has a legal obligation to provide reception conditions to applicants for international protection, including bed and full board. The use of emergency accommodation is an interim measure while we seek to assist those with status in accessing mainstream housing. We work in partnership with agencies such as Depaul, the Peter McVerry Trust and others to secure permanent accommodation for people who have status here. They are working very hard in that regard. They are very reputable agencies with expertise in this area.

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