A resident of a Clare Direct Provision Centre claims parents in the international protection system have been placed in financial hardship by the government.
It comes as a new study has found almost 90% of parents living in Direct Provision feel their daily allowance isn’t sufficient to cover basic needs.
The Irish Refugee Council’s new report, which has been funded by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, highlights that those living in Direct Provision aren’t immune to the cost-of-living crisis.
At present, each adult in the system is entitled to a weekly allowance for personal or incidental expenses of €38.80, while this is €29.80 per week for a child.
However, the report states that 88% of parents feel this isn’t enough to fund essential expenses such as food and healthcare.
Knockalisheen Direct Provision Centre resident and spokesperson for the Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland, Bulelani Mfaco, says parents in the international protection system are under a high level of stress due to not being able to meet even the most basic of costs.
The current rate of child benefit is €140 per month and pre-Budget speculation has suggested there could be a double-payment before Christmas.
As parents in Direct Provision aren’t eligible for the payment, the Irish Refugee Council is calling for this to be rectified.
Doras CEO John Lannon says the welfare system isn’t equitable if it doesn’t support everyone in need of assistance.
You can listen to the full interview here:
