Plans for upgraded services on the route 65 of Dublin Bus, which caters to the asylum seekers’ accommodation at the Crooksling tented site, are in the pipeline following issues about the route’s capacity in south Dublin. Since mid-July, the transportation provider has been receptive of 18 complaints stemming from occurrences where the local bus missed making a stop at the Crooksling site.
A representative from Dublin Bus has verified the receipt of these complaints regarding capacity issues towards the end of July, and assured that upgraded services will be implemented from the conclusion of August to early September, coinciding with the availability of resources.
A correspondence complaint was raised by a resident of Blessington, who is also a user of the bus service, stating instances where the Number 65 Dublin Bus missed stopping for individuals housed at Crooksling or picked up only some of them as the vehicle was overly crowded. The letter pointed out that this was a regular occurring problem which was unacceptable and claimed that passengers often had to stand during the journey back from the city centre, exceeding the safe capacity levels for standing.
The complainant also cautioned about potential tensions in the upcoming future due to the inadequate capacity. Another letter addressed to the Minister for Integration, Roderic O’Gorman, brought to notice that some men housed at the Crooksling site had resorted to walking a risky section of the N81 – which lacks pedestrian facilities – to find earlier bus stops in attempts to secure a spot on the bus headed towards central Dublin. The correspondence warned about the risk of major transport accidents on the N81 if conditions remained unchanged.
A representative from the Department of Integration admitted reports of overcrowding issues, however, pointed out that regular Dublin bus services to the city centre are available for men in Crooksling, with additional transportation on demand.
A discussion took place last week involving the department’s team for community engagement, Dublin Bus representatives and the National Transport Authority. An additional meeting is slated to explore solutions for the capacity dilemma on the route, mentioned the representative.
When queried about alleged inadequate conditions at the camp, including lack of heat or power in the tents, the rep stated that International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) reps make frequent visits to speak with inhabitants and address any necessary improvements. Health Service Executive (HSE) staff also make regular visits, he added.
The Crooksling tents can accommodate up to 540 individuals, however, the exact current number of men on the site remains undisclosed by the department officials. Each tent is home to between 10 and 12 men.
A resident disclosed last Sunday that there’s still no electricity, and water leakage into the tents is an issue.
The department declared that there are portable heaters accessible and power supplied in the site’s indoor areas. The refurbishment work, which will transition the men from tents into permanent structures, is in process with no definite completion date available, confirmed the representative.