Asylum seekers say they are being treated differently to Ukrainian arrivals

Asylum seekers in a Dublin hotel claim they are struggling with their living conditions and are being treated differently to arrivals from Ukraine. An asylum seeker from North Africa told the Irish Mirror they have to sleep on the floor and chairs in the Citywest Hotel and that they are forced to wake at 7am. The resident claimed arrivals from Ukraine are being treated in a different manner to those seeking asylum from other countries. ’’There are special dining rooms for Ukrainian refugees,“ Adel said. “[Ukrainians] are normally transferred within a couple of days, while we get transferred in around six weeks.“ The Department of Integration said it is not in a position to comment on individual complaints. A statement from the Department said: “[International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS)] is always available to deal with any complaints from residents, and residents are encouraged to engage with IPAS if they are unhappy with any aspect of their accommodation. “However, where a significant complaint or a resident is not comfortable raising a complaint with a centre manager.“ The Irish Mirror contacted Citywest Hotel management for clarification but we have yet to receive a reply. However, the Department of Integration confirmed there are two separate dining areas for temporary residents. “One is for Citywest Hotel guests. The second is for those staying at the Ukrainian Transit Hub, both International Protection applicants and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.“ __________________________________________________ Have you downloaded the Irish Mirror app? - Search for Irish Mirror in the Google Play store: - Search for Irish Mirror in the App Store if you’re on iOs: SUBSCRIBE to other Irish Mirror social channels: - TWITTER | - INSTAGRAM | - FACEBOOK | - WEBSITE | - YOUTUBE | You can get daily news updates straight to your inbox via our daily newsletter - sign up here: GET IN TOUCH WITH THE IRISH MIRROR - Email: news@ - Got a story? Call us on 353 1 868 8600