I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 196 together.
While the Department cannot provide information in relation to individual cases, I can assure the Deputy that the safety and wellbeing of all residents and staff in our accommodation centres is a priority for the Department and all IPAS teams.
An IPAS accommodation centre is a person’s home while their application for international protection is assessed. On arrival at an accommodation centre, people seeking international protection are provided with the ‘IPAS House Rules’ which explains the rules and procedures that are designed to make reception and accommodation centres safe and effective.
Should there be a breach of house rules, Section 6 of European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018 sets out measures that the Department may take when an individual “has committed, or is committing, a serious breach of the house rules of the place of accommodation”.
Usually there are a series of reminders about the house rules and or warnings. If breaches continue, it can be necessary to relocate people following repeated warnings.
Centre management in all IPAS centres all have an ongoing working relationship with the local Gardaí.
If there is ever any concern in relation to acts of violence or other criminal activity in any IPAS setting, An Garda Síochána are engaged.
