Edward Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

It is important that in all discussions here we choose our language carefully. We must not say anything that might inflame situations or give encouragement to any extreme positions. We must stick at all times to facts and remember that we are talking about fellow human beings. The most important thing is that we have open and frank discussions. By having open discussions, we lessen the possibility of false information and extreme positions taking hold.

Two years ago, I stated publicly that we should have an open discussion on immigration. To date, we have failed to do so. We have nothing to hide.

I commend the Minister of State, Deputy Brophy, on the steps he has taken, which have already resulted in considerable improvements.

I wish to make a few points. We need to deal with applications quickly. By denying quick decisions, we are leaving people in limbo. This is not good for them. It also contributes to overcrowding and many other challenges. This feeds into the extra cost to the State. This expenditure has been far in excess of what it needs to be. I urge the Minister to work to renegotiate all contracts with a view to lowering the cost. Allied to this, there needs to be a regular count to establish the numbers in each centre so as not to be paying for people who are not living there. This is a basic control.

One of the cornerstones of any system is that all citizens of the State are treated equally. In the case of IPAS residents who are working and earning a wage, there must be a contribution to all accommodation costs. Rent should be calculated along the lines of the letting priority scheme of local authorities. Food and utility costs must also be charged. This is the same as what any citizen in this State pays.

My next point relates to the distribution of IPAS locations. It is important that centres are not all located in one area, or that small towns and villages do not have very high numbers. In my own county of Wicklow, the majority of IPAS centres and numbers of people seeking international protection are located in one municipal district, namely, west Wicklow. This district is also the most poorly served by public transport and services. Above all, these measures should be introduced quickly. One of the main issues I have seen since I entered the Dáil is how slowly things move. The world out there moves quickly. Government action and the action of relevant public servants must move much more quickly and reflect the realities on the ground. We see this in infrastructure delivery. These delays are causing hardship for those involved and costing the taxpayer hundreds of million of euros.

I will repeat what I said at the beginning. I hope this forms part of a move to an open and frank discussion.

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