Sir, – A Government notice appeared in the July 18th edition of The Irish Times seeking expressions of interest from accommodation providers for persons seeking international protection in Ireland. The items to be assessed include “Within a reasonable travelling distance to the International Protection Office in Dublin” and “Has transport links to Dublin”. It is well known that there is little or no unused accommodation near Dublin and that many areas of the country have limited transport links.
May I suggest to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth that they seek accommodation in areas distant from Dublin and send staff from the International Protection Office travelling on a regular circuit to these areas?
This change of perception could reduce the cost and stress for asylum seekers travelling and queueing outside the busy office in Dublin, bring social and economic benefits to areas away from Dublin, as well as a higher likelihood of finding suitable accommodation. – Yours, etc,
GENEVIEVE BECKER,
Galway.