The Government has presented its proposal to opt into the EU (recast) Reception Conditions Directive (2013/33/EU) to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice and Equality.
The Directive provides a framework that will enable International Protection applicants to access the labour market under certain conditions i.e. where applicants have not had a first instance decision within nine months, provided that the delay cannot be attributed to the applicant.
The Directive also includes important provisions in relation to children’s rights, health, education and material reception conditions for applicants, which includes housing, food, clothing and a daily expenses allowance. Participation in the Directive will place the provision of material reception conditions for applicants, which are currently provided under the executive system of Direct Provision, on a statutory basis, underpinned by EU law, for the first time.
For more information
- Read Department of Justice and Equality press release (17.01.2018)
- Read Opening Statement by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan TD, re: the ‘Motion to Opt Into the EU (recast) Reception Conditions Directive (2013/33/EU)’
- See summary of N.H.V v Minister for Justice & Equality and ors
