I propose to take Questions Nos. 800, 803 and 812 together.
Due to a lack of spare capacity within my Department’s accommodation portfolio, the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) has had no other recourse but to contract bed spaces in hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses to meet demand. The Central Hostel in Miltown Malbay is one of those premises contracted on an emergency basis.
As it is not contracted as a Direct Provision Centre, the inspection regime that exists within my Department does not apply to this premises. This is because the inspection regime is designed to monitor compliance against contractual obligations that Direct Provision service providers must meet. Our stated aim is to reduce the reliance on such emergency accommodation but given existing demand, that can only be achieved through increasing the number of dedicated Direct Provision bed spaces. It has not been possible to open additional new centres during the pandemic.
IPAS officials have visited the premises in Miltown Malbay and have spoken with residents via online clinics. They were satisfied that the premises is clean, safe and meeting the needs of residents. In addition, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) visited the premises in February 2020 as part of a wider tour of such accommodation premises and did not raise any concerns with my Department.
In general, and based on public health advice, transfers between centres are currently suspended at this time, unless there are urgent medical needs or for the safety and security of residents.
The concerns raised by residents in The Central Hostel, Miltown Malbay will be fully investigated by my officials as a matter of priority to assess how best they can be addressed. Any resolutions required will be implemented as quickly as possible.