Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree that is not sustainable for tents to be on the canal or anywhere in the public realm. It is not good for migrants and asylum seekers or for residents of the general areas involved. It is not acceptable, and there is a plan to deal resolutely with tents wherever they are pitched. I also make the point that there is a wider plan, first, in dealing with the increase in people seeking asylum here. There has undoubtedly been a substantial increase in line with the rest of Europe, and in line with worsening conditions as a result of war and famine overseas. Applications are now being assessed in record time. The number of applicants from safe countries has fallen by 50%. There is a new system to respond quickly to any upsurge from one country. There is an increase of almost 100% in international protection staff since 2022.

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