The Tánaiste has voiced concern over “anything that would dampen down the voices of communities”, following reports that accommodation centres for asylum seekers might be exempt from planning objections, reports The Mirror.
Government policy aims to reduce dependence on commercial accommodation for international protection applicants and instead develop more facilities on state-owned sites, reports The Mirror.
It was reported on Sunday that the Department of Justice is considering legislation that would limit the public’s ability to object to several major proposed centres for asylum seekers across the country, reports The Mirror.
When asked about the report, Tánaiste Simon Harris said the proposal “hasn’t come to Government yet” and emphasized that it is “important” for communities to have a say, reports The Mirror.
He told journalists at the annual 1916 Easter Rising commemoration: “I read that report, and I look forward to being fully briefed in relation to this,
“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,” reports The Mirror.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has previously introduced various immigration reforms in Cabinet, including requiring international protection applicants to contribute to their accommodation, adjusting family reunification rules, and setting timelines for citizenship eligibility, reports The Mirror.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.
