Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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First, I agree with the Senator that it was worthwhile to move the function from the Department of children to the Department of justice. It makes sense to have the accommodation function in the Department that processes the applications. I also am concerned about issues to do with trafficking. I have spoken to An Garda Síochána about it and the force has conducted serious investigations into it. I understand prosecutions will take place in this regard. That is not to say this is something that is prevalent or widespread in IPAS centres. It is not. If it subsequently transpires that an individual who is claiming asylum was a victim of human trafficking, that person will get better protection within the system.

The Senator also asked about minors. People with vulnerabilities are subject to a vulnerability assessment. In fact, all IP applicants receive vulnerability assessments on arrival. An unaccompanied minor will be assessed for vulnerability and protections are in place for them. The system is sophisticated in terms of recognising the frailties of individuals coming here who may be victims of trafficking or may be unaccompanied minors.