If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it. (John 14:14)

 

Under the Direct Provision system, asylum seekers are accommodated across the country in communal institutional centre.  The system was designed as a short-term measure in the year 2000, but many individuals experience lengthy stays, which is associated with declining physical and mental health, self-esteem and skills. Some residents have spent up to 10 or 12 years living in these conditions. Until February 2018, asylum seekers had no right to work in Ireland; restrictions still apply and the majority of people who live in Direct Provision centres have no right to access employment. The current institutional system does not facilitate integration, contributes to poor mental and physical health and leads to social exclusion. Today, there are more than 7,000 people living in Direct Provision centres across Ireland. (http://doras.org/)