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Direct Provision System

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 July 2021

Tuesday, 13 July 2021

Questions (497, 498)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

497. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his attention or that of his Department has been drawn to reports of cockroach infestations in direct provision centres since he took office; and if so, if he will provide detail on these incidents. [37489/21]

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Peadar Tóibín

Question:

498. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his attention or that of his Department has been drawn to reports or instances of mice or rat infestations in direct provision centres since he took office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37490/21]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 497 and 498 together.

I am aware of reports that circulate on media and social media regarding the presence of vermin in some accommodation centres for International Protection applicants. My Department officials are also made aware of occasional incidences by the centre management.

The Deputy will appreciate that, as with any premises whether residential or otherwise, there is always the possibility of intrusion by vermin.

The requirement for inspection of dedicated accommodation centres is a contractual obligation for all service operators contracted by my Department. Accommodation centres are subject to regular unannounced inspections by both my officials in the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) and an independent inspectorate company (QTS Ltd). These inspections are generally undertaken, twice yearly by my officials in IPAS and once yearly by QTS Ltd.

Inspectors examine all communal areas, bedrooms, kitchens and dining areas. Inspectors also examine occupancy registers, staffing records, health and safety documentation (including fire safety records), food preparation systems , menu cycles (in centres that provide full catering), facilities available to residents, information provision to residents and the condition of external grounds.

Evidence of any vermin infestation is also noted during the routine inspections by the centre management and by my officials or by QTS Ltd. Where there is evidence of any vermin activity, this is dealt with appropriately by the centre management and further inspections may follow. For example, where a cockroach infestation is found, a pest control company will be engaged to fog any affected rooms. More than one intervention may be required to fully address the issue if evidence is found of eggs on cloting etc. Residents of any affected room will be moved to another room until the situation is brought under control and the room is suitable for re-occupation.

Completed inspection reports are published on www.ria.gov.ie once the contractor has been given the opportunity to comment on the findings and, if necessary, indicate how and when any required remedial work has or will be undertaken.

Question No. 498 answered with Question No. 497.
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