Provide Safe Shelter For All People Seeking Safety

We are writing out of deep concern that Ireland can and must do better. Forcing people seeking safety to sleep rough before being offered accommodation is a cruel and unnecessary policy. 

This degrading practice must end immediately, with safe shelter provided to all upon arrival.

For over two years, men travelling alone seeking protection have routinely been denied accommodation. Courts, including the European Court of Justice, have ruled this unlawful. Volunteers have stepped in to help, but no one should ever have to survive on the streets to access protection.

The risks are severe. This policy is not only harmful, it is dangerous. Camps have been attacked, tents slashed, and men threatened and filmed by far right agitators spreading hate. Instead of offering safety, the State’s approach leaves people exposed to racism and violence.

We believe Ireland can rise above this. There is available capacity within the system, making this emergency measure unnecessary and indefensible.

Minister, we urge you to act now to end this harmful policy and instead uphold Ireland’s values of dignity, fairness, compassion - ensuring that all who seek protection here are met with safety and solidarity.