The Government's "kite flying" of a proposed €15 per week contribution from asylum seekers in State-provided accommodation is leading to fear and confusion among those who might be affected, the Chief Executive of the Migrant and Refugee Rights Centre has said.
Speaking on RTÉ's Drivetime, Fiona Hurley criticised the lack of consultation with organisations working with asylum seekers and warned of increased hardship for families already at risk of poverty.
"We're concerned that we're only hearing this information as it's coming out in the media," she said.
"It's a bit unfortunate that it's kite flying here, and it's leading to a lot of fear amongst asylum seekers who are quite confused about the situation."
Taoiseach Simon Harris earlier said that it would be "fair" for asylum seekers who are working and also living in State-owned accommodation to make a financial contribution.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Mr Harris said that the Cabinet should confirm it "in a few short weeks", when Minister for Integration Roderic O'Gorman brings new proposals.
Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe said it's a "very reasonable approach" for a person who gains a job, and is paid for that job, that "... the support from the State reflects that, and is adjusted accordingly".
He said the vast majority of asylum seekers want to work and, as they secure employment, "... it is appropriate that the support we gave them when they were in an emergency, is changed to reflect that".
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys added: "I think its fair. I think when people are working, they should be making that contribution."
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They were speaking at the Fine Gael meeting in Tullamore, Co Offaly, ahead of the Dáil returning next week.
Ms Hurley said the charge would likely see increased hardship for asylum seekers who do not receive a child benefit payment.
The proposed charge could deter asylum seekers from working, Ms Hurley added, as it reduces payments for those earning over €125 per week.
"That cost is quite considerable, so we're likely to see, I think, increased hardship.
"Once someone's working and earning more than €125 euro per week, they'll no longer get their weekly allowance.
"So it's not clear to us why the State is penalising people who are working when they're already means testing it through the weekly payment."
