Electoral candidates must prioritise long-term solutions that support the integration and resourcing of all communities, according to the STAD (Standing Together Against Direct Provision) coalition. The coalition – which was set up in 2022 to advocate for the end of the Direct Provision system – has highlighted the failures of successive governments to meet the housing needs of various communities in Ireland. 

A new social media campaign by the coalition noted the urgent need for political commitment to raising and delivering on public housing targets. Ahead of the general election which is set to take place in late 2024, the coalition has also called on candidates and voters alike to recognise the harm of divisive, anti-immigrant sentiment.

Fiona Hurley, STAD representative and CEO of Nasc, the Migrant and Refugee Rights Centre, said that “this campaign is a reminder to those running for a seat in the election that every person in their constituency deserves a roof over their head, access to healthcare, and a safe community to live in, and there should be no exceptions to that.”

“We need to see political leadership on this, during and after the election, including an end to long-standing regressive policies regarding affordable housing and standards in international protection and emergency accommodation.”

John Lannon, CEO of Doras, the Limerick-based migrant and refugee rights organisation, said, “There has been an increasing level of intolerance for the scapegoating and othering of people who seek asylum. This shift has been happening while arson attacks become a frequent occurrence on buildings earmarked for asylum-seekers.” 

“We  welcome the government’s public information programme on migration. However this needs to be backed up by action to ensure that the rights of all migrants, and in particular the rights of asylum seekers, are protected, and that their basic needs are met.” 

Nick Henderson, Irish Refugee Council CEO, said “As the general election campaigning gets under way we urge all candidates and political parties to ensure they do not scapegoat asylum seekers for the lack of housing, and that they avoid the use of any language that questions their right to be here and to be treated with dignity and respect.”

The STAD social media campaign promotes the Civil Society Manifesto Recommendations on International Protection, which was recently published by twenty-two organisations, including STAD members. The Manifesto recommendations include ending homelessness of those seeking protection, prioritising effective government communication with local communities, and supporting integration and social cohesion.

Research references for the figures and statistics mentioned above are available here: STAD_CampaignReferences.