Wednesday 25 March 2015

“When I was appointed last July I identified Direct Provision as a key area that was in need of reform. This is why I welcome the Government decision to publish the General Scheme of the new International Protection Bill today.

“The need to reform the entire Protection Process was underpinned within the Statement of Government Priorities.

“It is important to remember that the publication of this Bill is happening in tandem with the on-going work of the working group on the Direct Provision System, which I hope, will report back in the coming weeks.

“Having spent a lot of time working on this issue, it is apparent that the key problem that needs to be addressed is the length of time that people spend in the centres.

“At present there are three separate stages to apply to remain in the state, each with its own application process. When enacted this Bill will create a more efficient application process by introducing a single procedure mechanism for applicants.

“This is now largely seen as standards of best practice and will bring us into line with most of our European neighbours.”

ENDS