Committee could also create strategies to combat the rise of far-right groups
Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon has called for the establishment of an emergency cross-party Oireachtas committee on refugee integration in response to recent protests targeting asylum seekers.
“There is a complete information vacuum at the moment, which is being filled by misinformation peddled by the far-right and racist groups. Local communities around the country are being fed a constant diet of lies and fear by people who are simply intent on whipping up hysteria.
“A special Oireachtas committee should be immediately set up in response to the ongoing protests, which are becoming increasingly sinister and threatening in nature. Such a committee could help ensure that information on proposed refugee accommodation is effectively communicated and disseminated in a timely manner.
“An all-party committee could also focus on creating strategies to combat far-right groups and individuals, who are cynically taking advantage of the refugee crisis for their own nefarious purposes.
“TDs from all parties should have a key role in devising a long-term plan for the arrival of future international protection applicants while evaluating accommodation capacity.
“The Taoiseach gave a positive response to my proposal in the Dáil today, but this must be followed up by urgent action before the situation escalates further.”
February 1, 2023