A review on the process that led to the opening of a direct provision centre in Kerry will be completed next month.
Former Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan ordered the review in early June, following the controversy surrounding the opening of the Skellig Star Accommodation Centre in Cahersiveen.
Then-Minister Charlie Flanagan asked the Secretary General of the Department of Justice and Equality to review the department's actions on direct provision during the early stages of the pandemic.
This includes, in particular, reference to the opening of centres such as the one in Cahersiveen.
The review, which is underway, will examine: extending the right to work; alternative housing models and funding provisions; guidance on ensuring all applicants can open bank accounts; reducing the amount of time taken to process positive decisions; and ensure binding standards for centres are applied and enforced by January 2021.
It will also look at compulsory training for centre managers, moving away from the use of emergency accommodation and working with the Department of Transport towards access to driving licenses for applicants.
The report is expected to be finalised in August and submitted to Minister Helen McEntee for consideration.
