Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue. I am taking this matter, as I said, on behalf of the Minister for children, disability and equality, Deputy Foley. The points the Deputy raised will be brought to the attention of the Minister.

I reiterate the Department understands there is ongoing engagement between the provider, the local authority and An Bord Pleanála in the courts in relation to planning matters at this property. As the Deputy noted, matters related to planning are between the local authority and the accommodation service provider. The Department understands the decision about the planning issue for this property is before the courts and it is not appropriate for the Department to comment further on the matter at this time. If there are any matters arising from the court decision on this case that require action on the part of the Department, it will progress those without delay.

Deputy Neville is a TD for the constituency and obviously the particular points he has raised will be brought to the attention of the Minister. As I said, if there are any matters arising from the court decision that require action on the part of the Department it will progress those without delay. While demand for accommodation services for people seeking international protection continues to outweigh supply, with over 3,300 persons without an offer of accommodation, Ryevale House will continue to accommodate approximately 90 adults who are international protection applicants until the court has ruled on these matters.

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