Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I will use the Taoiseach's recent conversations with President von der Leyen as a springboard into the conversation I want to have. When the President was here in December, she spoke of Ireland’s great reception for those who came seeking sanctuary. In the last couple of days, it has once again been announced that accommodation will not be provided to people who come here seeking international protection. People have a right to pursue asylum. It is not fair for the State to say it will not be in a position to accommodate those people. That will mean refugees will be placed on the streets at a time of incredible tension and, I would say, unprecedented aggression. The State needs to do better. We understand Putin is using refugees as a tool in his war. I do not discount that but the State cannot neglect its responsibilities. We cannot say to communities already under massive strain and pressure that they can deal with it themselves. The State has a role. It cannot be in three or four weeks’ time; it has to be now. The Ministers responsible need to up their game. I do not doubt the pressure they are under but they must do better.

See this speech in context