Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
364. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of persons at present being provided with accommodation by IPAS that have been granted or refused international protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37493/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) releases weekly statistics in relation to people seeking international protection (IP), including a per-county breakdown of where IP applicants are residing. These statistics are located on the gov.ie website:
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/07027-ipas-statistics/
Currently, there are over 32,000 people accommodated across IPAS. As of 31 August, 5,234 of those accommodated by IPAS have been granted Status or Permission to Remain, and since the beginning of 2024 almost 3,600 people with status have left IPAS accommodation and progressed into the community.
IPAS has a specific Transition team who work in collaboration with Depaul Ireland, the Peter McVerry Trust, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and Local Authorities to support residents with status to exit IPAS accommodation and access other housing options. Those with status have the same housing entitlements as Irish Citizens and are supported to register with a Local Authority and, if required, to avail of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) to secure alternative accommodation. In addition, those with status have the same social welfare entitlements as Irish Citizens.
With respect those whose application has been refused, the Department of Justice advises IPAS after an application for international protection has been determined. When an applicant is not successful in gaining leave to remain or status and a Deportation Order has been signed, the Department of Justice advises IPAS. This is to allow the transition of the unsuccessful applicant from IPAS accommodation, if they have not already exited of their own volition. The information received by my Department is specifically in respect of those who have received a Deportation Order. Information on those who have had their application refused, but have not yet received a Deportation Order is not available to my Department officials.
Information on the number of applicants in IPAS accommodation with a pending Deportation Order is a matter for the Department of Justice.
