Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2024
633. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the status of an accommodation offer (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24984/24]
View answerMy Department received an offer of accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) at the location to which the Deputy refers.
Offers of accommodation to BOTPs where properties are in need of significant conversion and refurbishment works are passed on to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage for assessment under the Emergency Refurbishment (Ukraine) Programme (ERUP).
As with all offers of accommodation to accommodate BOTPs, but most particularly with regard to those requiring conversion/refurbishment, a detailed assessment must be carried out to ensure the property being offered is being prepared to the required standard and complies with building, fire and other statutory requirements. Accommodation providers are responsible for engaging with the relevant local authority when carrying out the refurbishment works. The property to which the Deputy refers has been referred to the relevant local authority and a reply is awaited.
Before a property in the ERUP programme is contracted for accommodating BOTPs, the relevant local authority confirms to my Department that the property is in compliance with key requirements, including planning, fire and other regulatory requirements.
If the property is deemed suitable for use, further communication will issue to elected representatives and other members of the community.
