I propose to take Questions Nos. 679 to 682, inclusive, together.
Contractual arrangements and discussions on services in International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) accommodation centres are deemed confidential and commercially sensitive. My Department can confirm that IPAS officials deal directly with Centre Management when an inspection takes place or resident welfare clinic is conducted.
The IPAS Customer Service team has been engaging with residents on a regular basis in relation to issues raised and to continuously communicate with them in relation to the ongoing accommodation crisis.
As mentioned, a joint clinic with the Resident Welfare Team was conducted on 7th November 2023 and a further Customer Service clinic was held on 23rd November 2023. The Customer Service team have committed to conduct another clinic before the end of 2023 and will continue to attend the centre as often as practicable.
The IPAS Centre Management Team has been actively engaging with the service provider in relation to the issues raised at welfare clinics in order to improve the overall level of service and accommodation being provided to our residents in Kilbride.
This includes ensuring transport is in place to and from an accommodation centre with a full coach service provided at Kilbride Army Camp to facilitate resident’s engagement in the labour market and to access to their local community.
This bus service is scheduled between Monday and Friday, departs at 8:00am from Kilbride to Tallaght, and returns at 6:00pm. A weekend service was trialled earlier this year, however, due to limited uptake from residents, this was subsequently stopped. IPPS is currently engaging with the service provider to explore options for further increasing the bus service.
The Department is also cognisant that the ability to meet peers or relatives is an important aspect of personal well-being for residents in IPAS Centres, and this is facilitated as much as possible. The Department will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the well being of those IPs resident at Kilbride Army Camp.
