Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 May 2024
326. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Justice if he will ensure that there is a designated liaison staff member located at the IPO office on Mount Street who will communicate and engage with the local residents’ group, which has been very patient and understanding over the past 14 months. [23614/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the primary focus and role of the International Protection Office (IPO) is the acceptance and examination of applications for international protection. Any queries in relation to accommodation and related services provided to international protection applicants are the responsibility of the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability and Integration. They can be contacted at ipasinbox@equality.gov.ie.
IPAS staff are present in the IPO reception and engage with applicants at the point of initial application. The Department understands that IPAS record those persons it has not yet been able to accommodate and provide a range of supports to take account of these circumstances.
The IPO liaises on an ongoing basis with local Garda authorities and with Dublin City Council in relation to the immediate vicinity of the IPO premises. If any local residents wish to engage directly with the IPO, they can do so at info@ipo.gov.ie.
