I propose to take Questions Nos. 596, 597, 598 and 599 together.
My Department is committed to supporting all those seeking international protection (IP) in Ireland and work is ongoing across the country to bring available accommodation into use to support our residents.
As part of a whole of Government approach, the Department's International Protection Procurement Service (IPPS) endeavours to minimise any impact on the private rental or housing markets in conducting its operations. The majority of accommodation offers to the Department come from alternative sources outside of the private rental or housing sector.
The Government’s Comprehensive Accommodation Strategy to address accommodation shortages and build a sustainable system involves a range of different actions, from developing State-owned sites with tented and modular accommodation, to considering more immediate offers of accommodation from providers, including existing accommodation, conversions of office or commercial facilities, and other options.
My Department is not aware of significant evidence of or a trend in tenants or residents being removed from private rented accommodation in order to provide offers of accommodation for use as IPAS accommodation. When properties are offered to the Department for accommodation for people seeking international protection, checks with local authorities are undertaken in every instance, and if it is brought to our attention that this has happened, the offer will be rejected.
Once an offer is received with respect to accommodation for international protection (IP) applicants, it is assessed for suitability. This includes a range of factors such as previous use of the property, accommodation suitability, rates, room sizes, capacity and amenities, information on the building's safety and fitness for occupancy, and various other criteria such as Wi-Fi, security provision and staffing.
In the case of existing premises where material alterations or the subdivision of rooms has been carried out, or in the case of existing premises which are not currently a place of residence, this will require a change of use and most likely involve material alteration. Any such works must comply with the Building Regulations and Building Control Regulations (1997 to 2022).
This includes a Commencement Notice, Fire Safety Certificate application, and Disability Access Certificate application and an assigned certifier to certify works have been carried out in compliance with the building regulations.
The Department is conscious of the need to ensure quality in all accommodation contracted, while also providing shelter and safety urgently to those who need it.
