Ms Oonagh Buckley:

I am surprised, but I thank the Chairman for doing so. We will take the matter on board and examine it.

On the need to carry out an independent audit, we know that when standards are introduced, one of the important elements will be how we measure against them. On the fear factor mentioned by the Chairman, nothing that happens in a direct provision centre such as the making of a complaint can have an impact on the decision-making process of the international protection office or the international protection appeals tribunal. They are independent in the operation of their functions. There is a Chinese wall between the systems in place. I appreciate that there may be fear, but it may be just as well to say bluntly right now that somebody who complains in a centre about some circumstance within it will see absolutely no impact on the legal consideration given to the application for asylum or protected status. As well as being able to complain to the RIA about any circumstance, it is good that people have a right of access to the Ombudsman and the children's ombudsman. We have a system under which people can complain to somebody who is completely independent of the system to have his or her complaints addressed, just as an Irish person can.

That covers most of the issues raised. We would be very interested in hearing any recommendation the committee might wish to present. We cannot promise that we could change course as rapidly as others might like, but we know we that are moving towards a better system. We will take on board and consider any recommendation the committee might have to make. I reiterate that we are really open to considering other models of provision at the centres. We are not fixed on one form. However, we would probably have to have a row with our colleagues in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform if we wanted to change our budgetary position, but so be it.