Michael D. Higgins
Question:502 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the direct provision system of provision for immigrants has been monitored or evaluated; and if he will publish a report thereon. [18749/03]
Written Answers. - Asylum Seeker Accommodation.
Asylum seekers have their needs met by the reception and integration agency which operates under the aegis of my Department in the system of direct provision which was introduced in the State on 10 April 2000. No other immigrants are accommodated in direct provision.
All accommodation providers and companies managing State owned properties are required under contract generically approved by the Office of the Attorney General to ensure that all accommodation centres comply and operate in accordance with all statutory requirements of local authorities and state agencies in relation to bedroom capacity, food, food hygiene, water supply, fire safety and general safety.
It is the policy of the reception and integration agency for its inspections unit to conduct comprehensive inspections of each of the properties used to accommodate asylum seekers at least on a twice yearly basis. These inspections are always unannounced and the inspectors look at all aspects of the accommodation centre in relation to the proprietors' obligations under the contract which cover such areas as reception, management and staff cover, menus and facilities being provided, maintenance of the property and fire and safety issues. Further unannounced visits are made on a regular basis by senior management to accommodation centres throughout the State to ensure that standards are being maintained and staff of the agency hold clinics on a regular basis in the larger accommodation centres so that asylum seekers can raise issues of concern. In addition an independent assessor has been engaged by the agency to conduct comprehensive inspections of all centres.
Any diminution in standards which comes to the attention of the inspection teams is immediately followed up and proprietors are requested to make any changes and improvements deemed necessary. Where necessary follow up inspections are also arranged. Diminutions in standards are treated very seriously by the agency and in cases where they have not been remedied, contracts have been terminated in the past.