John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 149: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the arrangements being put in place to inform the residents of a hostel (details supplied) in County Kilkenny of its sale and closure; the locations being offered to the residents; the number of available places at each location; the alternative being offered to those who wish to stay in Kilkenny, particularly those who have lived in Kilkenny for a long number of years; the final date on which the hostel must close; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4636/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Reception & Integration Agency (RIA) of my Department has a contract in place for the accommodation of asylum seekers in the premises referred to by the Deputy, until 9 May 2007. After that time the premises will no longer be available for this purpose and my Department has no further knowledge on the future plans for this building.

All State service providers (e.g., HSE, Department of Social and Family Affairs) have been advised of the closure of this centre so that they can prepare for the necessary adjustments to the provision of their services. In addition, the local support group, who have provided on-going support and assistance to the many residents who have resided at the centre since it first opened in December 2000, has also been advised of the closure.

The Deputy will appreciate that the residents of this accommodation centre are involved in a process to determine the outcome of their claim for asylum in the State. In the event of a positive determination of refugee status, the residents will be free to reside in Kilkenny or anywhere else in the State. In the meantime, residents will be offered alternative RIA accommodation nearer to the date of closure. As the availability of accommodation at any one time is governed by a range of factors, including the numbers and class (i.e., single / families / couples) of persons requiring accommodation, the RIA is not in a position to offer specific accommodation to the residents of this centre at this time.