Irish Refugee Council statement in response to events at Millstreet Direct Provision Centre

Posted On: 25 June 2013

Sue Conlan, CEO of the Irish Refugee Council, says: “In light of the events at the asylum accommodation centre in Millstreet, Co. Cork, the Minister for Justice cannot continue to deny the need for an investigation of the system of Direct Provision system.  It is a system that is seriously harming the well-being of children and their families, many kept in accommodation that is unsuitable for long term residence and managed by organisations that have limited commitment or experience of running centres for a diverse and vulnerable group of people.  At the very least, a system of independent inspections should be introduced in the short term.

“The Minister also needs to be truthful and acknowledge that the proposed legislative reform will not address the needs of those already in the system.”

-ENDS-

Media queries:

Sharon Waters    085 8585510 / Sharon@irishrefugeecouncil.ie

NOTES:

• The families in the Millstreet centre have been experiencing a variety of problems, including restrictions on children playing outside, no play room inside, service of expired food, overcrowding including parents sharing beds with children and cockroach and rat infestation.
• Attempts by a representative group of residents to discuss concerns with management today were rebuffed. Management has consistently frustrated attempts by residents to discuss concerns.  Today’s response by management at Millstreet led to them feeling powerless and therefore protesting today.