Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

In the first instance, I condemn any actions designed to intimidate vulnerable international protection applicants, including children, who have fled war and persecution. These actions cause fear and distress for the applicants, but as some of these protests take place outside centres, they result in the intimidation of staff as well. I also condemn the attempts to stigmatise and demonise men who seek international protection. We have to recognise that men are victims of war and state persecution and repression as well.

Peaceful protest for communities is a right that is guaranteed under our laws, but where any criminal activity takes place, that is a matter for An Garda Síochána. My Department actively engages with An Garda Síochána at local, regional and national level regarding issues related to the opening, closing or management of centres. I also met with the Garda Commissioner, Garda senior management and the Minister for Justice two weeks ago. We discussed in detail the measures being taken across the country and I am satisfied An Garda Síochána is taking these matters seriously. I am also very satisfied with the support my Department and its officials have received in recent weeks in terms of new openings that have taken place.

It is important to note that in the vast majority of cases, even where accommodation locations have to open at very short notice due to the scale of arrivals, communities throughout Ireland are very welcoming to international protection applicants. I have engaged with a series of community organisations when new centres are opening to provide information and to dispel any misinformation being circulated. International protection applicants have a right to live peacefully in what is essentially their new home in Ireland while their application is being processed.

In addition to intensive engagements with Garda colleagues, my officials also work with local public representatives, a wide range of other State agencies and NGOs to address the needs of arriving applicants.

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