Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. Our obligation to vulnerable people does not change. I know that some of these centres were temporary rather than permanent but some temporary centres have been in operation for four years. It is clear that many people will be in these centres for a long time. I was glad to hear the other day that people who are living in tents in the Tralee area will be moved. I am not sure whether they have been moved yet. There are different categories. People who are living in tents should be subject to inspection as well as those who are lucky enough to have own-door accommodation. I am glad that the roll-out will commence before the end of the year. It is welcome because, having met with the Irish Refugee Council, it had serious concerns about the most vulnerable international protection applicants, particularly children.

As the Minister knows, many of the properties would fail the most basic of standards. Adherence to the legally binding standards for permanent operators has not been perfect either. It has all been very ad hocto date. The experience in the United Kingdom gives rise to great concern.

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