Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 March 2018
297. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if RIA has a fit and proper persons' test for organisations or persons that run direct provision centres on behalf of RIA. [11803/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll accommodation service providers are obliged to provide the services outlined in the relevant contract for services.
To ensure this is happening, my Department oversees a system of inspection of centres. These inspections are carried out at random and usually happen three times a year.
All payments based on the contract are made though the existing payments facilities which include checks with the Revenue Commissioners for ongoing tax compliance.
In addition to the foregoing, all staff in centres must undergo Garda Vetting before they can work in the centre and equally must abide by the Code of Practice for staff.
Training on Children First legislation is provided by qualified staff from my Department to all local staff.
RIA staff hold regular clinics in each accommodation centre to hear and address any concerns raised by residents. Complaints in relation to any issue that may arise should in the first instance be raised with local management or directly with RIA or directly with either the Ombudsman or Ombudsman for Children as appropriate.
