Calls have been made for housing policy to be changed to factor in long-term housing for asylum seekers from the outset.
It comes as tented accommodation is being constructed near Knockalisheen Direct Provision Centre to cope with increased demand from people seeking international protection.
It understood that construction got underway on tented accommodation at Knockalisheen earlier this week and has now been completed.
The works consist of 12 structures capable of hosting up to 10 people, which it’s believed will be primarily used for those seeking asylum from areas other than Ukraine.
It comes as the Government has been scrambling for alternative accommodation for Ukrainian refugees and those seeking international protection following a spike in demand.
A Clare-based spokesperson for the Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland has expressed concern that there isn’t a single tier system for assylum seekers in Ireland and that conditions for those in tents come winter will be unbearable.
Knockalisheen resident Bulelani Mfaco says if Direct Provision itself has long been deemed as unsuitable for long term accommodation by national and international human rights groups, tents would be much worse.
He’s calling on the Government to factor in refugees and asylum seekers into long-term housing plans.
Listen back to the full interview here:
Visa-free travel for some refugees coming to Ireland has been suspended this week, though it’s understood the Government’s preparing for 1,400 Ukrainian refugees to arrive here weekly for the rest of the year.
Orla Ni Eili of the Clare Immigrant Support Centre says this type of response needs to be co-ordinated by a dedicated Government Minister.
