A Time for Hope? The European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018

For those unfamiliar with the term, ‘direct provision’, it is shorthand for provisions that Ireland has in place for those seeking protection in Ireland. This includes provision of education to those up to Leaving Certificate level, availability of medical services to asylum seekers in the protection system, along with a range of accommodation supports, a weekly financial allowance and provision of food, or the ability to cook food. This system of direct provision has existed for almost nineteen years. There have been countless reports since the early 2000s urging Ireland to come in line with common European Union norms, but all these reports, had been ignored. Yet, only since 06 July 2018 have the rights, entitlements and obligations for asylum seekers been placed on any sort of legislative footing. In response to a decision of the Irish Supreme Court recognising the right to work for asylum seekers, the Irish Government decided, after many years to become bound by European Union law, when it comes to the reception rights of asylum seekers.