Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Smith raises several very important points that in one minute 48 seconds I will not have an opportunity to reply to in the type of detail that I would wish. I would of course be happy to engage on all of the points he raised. I note his representations on behalf of his colleagues, Deputies Nash and Ó Ríordáin, in respect of organised crime in their constituencies. I did have the opportunity in the Seanad, when both of those Deputies were Members of that House, to discuss that. I have noted carefully the comments and point to what I said earlier to Deputy Mitchell in respect of the Coolock-Darndale-Clongriffin area. It is an issue that has been the subject matter of intense engagement between me, local communities, the Garda Síochána and the former assistant commissioner, engaged on the ground now, with a view to seeing how best we can deal with community building and community engagement, more than just the important issue of An Garda Síochána. I said the same to Deputy Nash after a recent visit to Drogheda.

I am not happy with the current arrangements in direct provision. They are far from ideal and far from perfect. I am on the record as having said that on numerous occasions. I acknowledge some improvements. However, I understand the concern of Deputy Smith and share many of his concerns in respect of specific instances.

I would be happy to engage on that matter further. Perhaps we will have an opportunity for a more comprehensive debate on that issue in the future. In the meantime, I am actively engaged with those in the direct provision centres, with the centre managers and with senior officials in my Department and in the agencies to ensure that significant improvements are made, and made urgently.

See this speech in context