Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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497. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will outline the reported issues previously highlighted in Middletown House, Castletown Geoghegan, County Westmeath when an expression of interest for accommodation for Ukrainian families was made; if these issues have been resolved; if a contract has been entered into by his Department in relation to this building; and his Department’s future intentions are regarding its use for those seeking international protection. [8140/23]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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Deputy, as of 12 February 23, there are 19,818 people accommodated in the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) system as a whole, compared with 8,500 at this time last year. Of this total, 4,137 are children.

Since the beginning of 2022, Ireland and many other European countries are experiencing a significant increase of new arrivals seeking international protection (IP). Last year, over 15,000 people arrived in Ireland seeking accommodation while their applications for international protection is processed by the International Protection Office. Over the period 2017-2019 an average of 3,500 people applied for protection each year.

The State has a legal and moral obligation to assess the claims of those who seek refuge, and in that time to provide accommodation and supports.

Intensive efforts are undertaken daily by staff in DCEDIY and the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) to source emergency accommodation. However, procuring enough bed space to keep pace with incoming arrivals remains extremely challenging, leading to very significant shortages. All of the limited accommodation capacity within the IPAS system is currently being used.

Given the significantly increased numbers of arrivals in the context of accommodation shortages, the Department is considering all offers of accommodation to address the shortfall.

The Department cannot comment on any specific plans for accommodation pending the agreement of rates, terms and contracts with providers as this is commercially sensitive information.

IPAS is responding to an offer of accommodation made in respect of this property. A full assessment of the property is underway at present, and, if a contract is agreed, it is hoped that this property can be brought into use for the accommodation of international protection applicants (IPAs).

With all new properties the Department contracts to provide accommodation for IPAs, the provider is required to provide detailed information in relation to suitability for use including fire certification. Department are carefully appraised before contracts are issued and properties are also subject to inspections.

I trust this information clarifies the matter Deputy.