Picture: Keith Wiseman
LIMERICK-based migrant rights organisation Doras Luimní has called on the government to develop long-term policies in relation to refugees resettled in Ireland to ensure they have “appropriate supports and resources”.
Doras Luimní director Leonie Kerins said: “Following the outcry of public support and compassion for those suffering and dying on the borders of Europe, the government have indicated that Ireland is willing to accept increased numbers of refugees. While we welcome this and urge the government to immediately follow-through on this pledge, we must emphasise that long-term policies also need to be developed.
“The government has indicated that disused army barracks will be used to house refugees in the short-term but we fear that without proper planning and forward-thinking policy development, we may see another direct provision scandal on our hands.”
Ms Kerins pointed out that Knockalisheen direct provision centre was a disused army barracks in the early 1950s when it was used to accommodate Hungarian refugees fleeing civil war.
She continued: “Today it accommodates over 200 asylum seekers who have fled conflict and war, many of whom have been housed there for up to ten years and counting. Direct provision was an emergency solution 15 years ago – we cannot let the same mistakes happen again.”
Doras Luimní says it has been “overwhelmed” by the public response to the refugee crisis in Limerick and is calling on the public to continue advocating for increased refugee resettlement by writing to local TDs.
Ms Kerins concluded: “The people of Limerick have generously donated supplies and funds in support of the relief efforts on the ground. We are asking people who are keen to support the response to the crisis to also write to their local TD calling for immediate and long-term action. The government have responded favourably to the public reaction so far and we have to keep up the momentum.”
