Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 November 2023
283. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide information on a series of matters regarding international protection applicants, in tabular form, in view of a television report and allegations made by residents of Inch, Ennis, County Clare (details supplied). [51718/23]
View answerAs at 19th November 2023, there are currently 28 residents accommodated in Magowna House. The contracted capacity of this centre is 62.
With regards to the matters raised, the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is in close contact with the centre’s management.
In terms of transportation, there is an assigned car at Magowna House, that facilitates transportation for the residents. There are three drivers providing a transportation service and these drivers work on rotation, which allows access to transportation throughout the day. The schedule provides transport every hour from 10:00 to 18:30, picking residents up at Magowna House, and dropping them to Ennis. Additionally, between the hours of 21:00 and 9:00, there is transportation available by appointment.
Regarding security, there are four on-site security guards who are licensed to provide security services. These security personnel work on a rotational schedule to ensure continuous coverage, both day and night. Additionally, there are two night porters who contribute to the overall security measures in place.
IPAS is always available to deal with any complaints from residents and residents are encouraged to engage with IPAS if they are unhappy with any aspect of their accommodation. Where a complaint is significant in nature or a resident is not comfortable raising a complaint with a centre manager, they may make the complaint directly, or through a representative authorised to act on their behalf, to the IPAS Customer Service Team.
If they wish to raise a complaint, they may contact the IPAS helpdesk to seek advice. The IPAS helpdesk can be contacted by email ipasinbox@equality.gov.ie.
In the event of a resident not feeling comfortable with contacting the Department directly or the centre management, the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) operate a confidential support helpline for all residents being accommodated by IPAS. The Freephone helpline is operated by the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS).
If a resident wishes, a complaint made through this service may be passed, in confidence, to IPAS for investigation and resolution. All residents have access to this independent support helpline. IPAS is working to facilitate clinics at centres, in line with public health restrictions. The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) helpline contact number is 1800 929 00 or email: info@jrs.ie.
All International Protection Applicants have access to the services of the Ombudsman and Office of the Ombudsman for Children, should they consider that their complaint has not been managed appropriately.
