Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I would commend that course of action because it probably says all that needed to be said when Mr. Garvey stated that part of the reason the office does not go to some of these places is because of road access. We are able to say, from our privileged position, that we will not go because it is tricky in the winter but people are living in these places. One of the big problems that we encountered when we met people who were living in such places was the issue of travel and being able to access transportation in and out of these places. I commend that course of action and ask our guests to have a think about that.

This committee understands, and from everything I have heard our guests say today, that there has been no reduction in the numbers of these centres. As the opposite is the case, the likelihood is that another centre will pop up this winter. I suggest, with the greatest of respect, that the witnesses make it a priority to visit newly-established emergency accommodation centres.

I want to ask briefly about the Ombudsman's statutory remit as it relates to the visits and observations that it makes. Some of the media were carrying the Ombudsman's statement about wanting greater powers in respect of the administrative process and that is fair enough and a legitimate call. I am keen to know how the Office of the Ombudsman has found the process of the recommendations or observations it makes to the Department or the relevant agency and the actions that have been taken. Is there an internal role that monitors what actions the Department has taken in response to recommendations or observations the office has made? Are the witnesses frustrated or prohibited by a lack of proactive functions to compel the Department to do some things?