Important for communities to be heard over asylum centres, says Simon Harris

By Cillian Sherlock, Press Association

The Tánaiste has expressed concern over “anything that would dampen down the voices of communities”, after reports that accommodation centres for asylum seekers could be made exempt from planning objections.

It is Government strategy to move away from a reliance on commercial accommodation for international protection applicants and establish more facilities on state-owned sites.

It was reported on Sunday that the Department of Justice is considering legislation that would curtail the ability of members of the public to object to several major proposed centres for asylum seekers across the country.

Asked about the report, Tánaiste Simon Harris said the proposal “hasn’t come to Government yet” and added that it is “important” that communities have a voice.

He told reporters 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.”

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has previously brought a range of immigration reforms to Cabinet, including international protection applicants paying towards their accommodation, changes to family reunification rules, and timelines around eligibility for citizenship.