Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We need to look at other options because the system is creaking at the edges. We need to look at using State-owned accommodation. We have a considerable number of State properties that could be converted into a centre where people could be housed. We should also look at a system of fostering. Many well-intentioned people want to help those who are seeking asylum. If we had a system in place similar to the fostering of children we could get some uptake in respect of it. People could be paid for taking in and putting up a small family or individuals who are seeking asylum for a limited period. Obviously, they would need to be vary carefully vetted. It is an option that we need to consider. Unless we get a hold of this issue, it will be manipulated and people from the far right will take advantage of it. Fortunately, we have avoided the worst excesses of far-right politics. Just because we have avoided that in the past it does not mean we will always be able to avoid it in the future. Opportunistic people are trying to use this issue for their own right-wing political agenda.

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