International Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 January 2024

Wednesday, 31 January 2024

Questions (128)

Bríd Smith

Question:

128. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if in relation to the provision of accommodation for those seeking international protection, he will take steps to ensure that training for new accommodation providers is not only provided but rigorously applied and tested as much as possible; is he aware that while experienced accommodation providers know the supports and services that are available, there are reports that new providers do not and will he acknowledge that these gaps must be addressed by ensuring appropriate training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4465/24]

Written answers

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) has a dedicated Training Unit that develops training sessions in line with general IPAS Policies and Procedures. The IPAS Training Unit conducts overview sessions with new and existing accommodation providers on a weekly basis. The overview sessions include, but are not limited to:

• House Rules and Procedures

• Vulnerability assessments.

• Critical Incidents

• Suicide Awareness

• Child Protection and Welfare

• GDPR

These overview sessions allow providers to ask questions or seek advice from the IPAS staff.

IPAS works in collaboration with other Government Agencies, such as the HSE, Tusla, NGOs and other approved service providers.

The IPAS Training Unit continually engages with accommodation providers in relation to their specific training needs.

IPAS also provides specific briefings on the IPAS Child Protection Policy and Practice Guide to staff at accommodation centres. All staff in accommodation centres where children and families are accommodated are required to complete the Tusla online Children First eLearning course, and to obtain a certificate of completion for the course.