Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Justice and Equality, Jim O’Callaghan, has welcomed the publication of the Ombudsman’s annual report on the direct provision system and the complaints received from those residing in direct provision centres and emergency accommodation.
Deputy O’Callaghan said: “The Ombudsman plays an important role in oversight of the direct provision system and I welcome the publication of his third annual commentary. He has again shone a light on the many flaws within the system, concluding that the accommodation system is unsuitable given the length of time residents are being kept waiting on decisions on their asylum applications. This is particularly the case in the context of emergency accommodation.
“The Department has confirmed to the Ombudsman that it is looking to move towards ensuring that centres are built for purpose, as opposed to the current system which is largely comprised of adapting existing buildings (such as hotels). This is something that Fianna Fáil will seek to progress in the context of discussions around the drafting of a Programme for Government,” concluded Deputy O’Callaghan.
