Accommodation for Children

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012

Wednesday, 6 June 2012

Ceisteanna (194)

Michael McCarthy

Ceist:

180 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 253 of 22 May, 2012, his views on whether it is acceptable that his Department has no role in relation to the setting down of minimum standards for accommodation provided to children under the remote area boarding grant; if he will consider reviewing this matter in view of the concern of some parents regarding the lack of regulation in this area; if he will consider introducing standards in relation to the vetting and inspecting of such accommodation in the same manner that Irish summer colleges are subjected to examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26798/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Ruairí Quinn)

I reiterate that my Department has no role in relation to setting down minimum standards for accommodation or the conduct of inspections envisaged by the Deputy.

It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that the accommodation which they secure for their child is of an acceptable standard.

I would encourage parents to ensure they are satisfied with the standard of accommodation for anyone providing accommodation to minors.