Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2021
117. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when it is expected that HIQA will commence inspection of direct provision accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48306/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to confirm the Government’s intention that the accommodation centres operated by the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS), which is part of my Department, will be independently monitored by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) for compliance with the National Standards for accommodation offered to people in the protection process. These standards were adopted by Government in 2019.
The National Standards meet the requirements of the relevant legislation – the EU (recast) Reception Conditions Directive which Ireland opted into in June 2018.
My Department is currently engaging with HIQA and the Department of Health to undertake the preparatory work with regard to HIQA's monitoring role. It is planned that the formal relationship between my Department and HIQA will begin with effect from 1 November this year. In parallel with this process work is being undertaken to determine the legislative underpinning for HIQA's monitoring role.
In advance of the introduction of the independent monitoring mechanism, IPAS has taken steps to support adherence to the National Standards through its contract arrangements with accommodation centres. All properties selected under IPAS’ most recent tender process are required to be able to implement the National Standards. This requirement applies to the provision of new centres and to any renewal of a contract with a current provider.
In advance of HIQA’s new role, it is important to note that there are inspections carried out under the current system. At present, all IPAS permanent accommodation centres are subject to three unannounced inspections per year. In 2021, two inspections will be carried out in each centre by an independent inspections company (QTS Ltd) and one by officials of the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS). Inspections cover a wide range of issues including fire safety, appropriate signage and information for residents, the condition of communal areas and sleeping quarters and adherence to hygiene and other health and safety requirements.
I look forward to HIQA becoming formally involved in this area. As a respected, independent statutory body, I think it is wholly appropriate that HIQA would monitor the standards required in our accommodation centres for those seeking international protection.
