Simon Harris has raised concerns about “anything that would dampen down the voices of communities” following reports that asylum accommodation centres could be made exempt from planning objections.
The proposal forms part of a broader Government strategy to reduce reliance on commercial accommodation and instead develop facilities on State-owned land, reports Breaking News.
It has been reported that the Department of Justice is considering legislation to limit the ability of the public to object to several large-scale centres for international protection applicants.
Responding to the reports, Mr Harris said the proposal has not yet been brought before Government and stressed the importance of community input, reports Breaking News.
He said he is awaiting a full briefing on the matter.
“I read that report, and I look forward to being fully briefed in relation to this,” reports Breaking News.
“There’s obviously a balance here, but I do always think having an opportunity for communities to engage is very important too. I think the voices of communities, engaging with communities, actually helps enhance social cohesion – and I would be concerned about anything that would in any way dampen down the voices of communities. Irish people are good, they’re full of common sense, they’re decent, compassionate people, and I think actually hearing the voices of communities is a good thing,” he said, reports Breaking News.
Meanwhile, Jim O’Callaghan has previously introduced a range of immigration reform proposals to Cabinet.
These include measures such as requiring international protection applicants to contribute towards accommodation costs, changes to family reunification rules, and revised timelines for citizenship eligibility, reports Breaking News.
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