Ms Oonagh Buckley:

If we are to introduce the new standards, we will move to a better accommodation offer across the board. I agree that the centre in Mosney is the jewel in the crown and offers the model in terms of where we need to get in providing for independent living and so forth. It is something we are working very hard to try to achieve.

It is very hard to compare internationally Ireland's processing system as we have a different legal system and structure for taking decisions. We treat international protection applicants entirely differently from other European countries. For example, other European countries detain applicants for asylum, but we do not detain anybody. We are working very hard to achieve the nine-month median goal. I would not be thanked by my colleague if I tried to set a more challenging goal for him and his team. I was head of the Workplace Relations Commission and know that there is a limit to how by much a process can be shortened because people must be given an opportunity to return questionnaires, etc. There is an absolute minimum that can be achieved. Mr. Kirrane and his team have been working very hard to introduce a shortened timeframe for applications from applicants from some of the safe countries of origin we have referenced, including Albania and Georgia, in conjunction with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. That will tighten the timeframes in a way that will remain fair to the applicants, but we must still give consideration to their individual application.

There was mention of health screening and access to healthcare after screening. It is unusual that health screening is offered to everybody. After people join the process, they have the same right to access health services as ordinary members of the Irish population. The Chairman identified an issue. We try to work closely with colleagues in the HSE, particularly where a direct provision centre is opening, to allay the concerns of the local population that there will be yet another demand placed on local GP services, etc. It is a challenge. There is no doubt that offering health services in any part of the country can present a challenge.

A child should not be in a direct provision centre. If a child is brought to our attention, we refer the matter to Tusla services. Children are referred to Tusla.