Senator Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil candidate for the European Parliament in the Midlands Northwest, is demanding assurances from Minister Roderick O'Gorman that no community will receive asylum seekers that does not have the capacity for them, as government ramps up efforts to get turnkey properties to alleviate the crisis.
Chambers called for absolute transparency and communication before any deal with providers is signed off on.
The government's effort aims to address the acute housing crisis facing asylum seekers, which has seen the launch of a national strategy aimed at renting or purchasing available properties. This initiative is particularly targeted at buildings that are in turnkey condition or those that require significant refurbishment to make them habitable for international protection applicants.
"While the intent of the government’s strategy is commendable as it seeks to provide urgent housing to those in need, it is imperative that the execution of this plan does not inadvertently skew the demographic and economic balance of certain regions," Senator Chambers remarked. She raised concerns about the potential for an unequal concentration of housing projects in the west and northwest, where real estate prices tend to be more affordable, possibly leading to speculative activities by developers, builders and landlords.
Senator Chambers stressed, "It is crucial that there is a balanced allocation that does not disproportionately impact any single region but instead contributes to the overall social fabric of the country. Ensuring fair distribution and transparency in how these properties are allocated will help maintain social cohesion and support the integration of asylum seekers into communities in a dignified and respectful manner."
The Department of Integration has issued a call for expressions of interest from property owners, with a closing deadline set for the end of next April. This initiative is part of broader efforts to accommodate over 13,000 asylum seekers under the government’s long-term plans, in addition to managing more than 20,800 individuals currently in emergency accommodations.
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