Refugee accommodation consultation
Deputy Healy-Rae objected that the proposed Killarney residence would house 55 men and said locals, the Garda and the council had not been consulted. The Tánaiste said the building had closed in 2011, consideration was being given to reopening it, and he would convey the Deputy's concerns.
It does not have capacity for 55 men.
Comment on this
On the broader issue raised by Deputy Eamon Ryan, the Government intends to have this matter resolved in accordance with the wishes of the Supreme Court by late spring next year. The Government has made a decision to facilitate the right to work of asylum seekers and applicants for refuge in the country.
I hope the business would facilitate an early debate in the new year on this issue. I acknowledge the interest of Deputy Ryan in particular as well as that of other Deputies but it is the firm intention and commitment of the Government to have this matter resolved in late spring. There are complexities involved but I would hope that the House would have an opportunity to debate the Government plan early in the new term.