Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 May 2019
161. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the body or organisation with responsibility for the oversight of emergency reception and orientation centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22593/19]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the vast majority of persons arriving in Ireland under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme are initially accommodated in Emergency Reception and Accommodation Centres (EROCs).
Accommodating persons resettled under the UNHCR led programme in EROCs is considered to be good practice. It allows for a period of acclimatisation, rest and recovery. The supports provided in EROCs include education, for example, English language classes, HSE medical screening and access to the services of the relevant departments.
Oversight for the conditions in centres is the responsibility of the Reception and Integration Agency within the Department of Justice and Equality. The Irish Refugee Protection Programme is responsible for the welfare of refugees admitted to Ireland under its programme. Residents may also have access to the services of the independent offices of the Ombudsman the Ombudsman for Children.
