Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On Deputy Broughan's questions, the DRHE is best placed to advise on a safety guidance voluntary code for child safety in emergency accommodation. I understand it has worked with Tusla and that there is a draft national quality standards framework to cover this area of the action plan and that an information guidelines booklet is also being developed in line with this objective. We are also working with the DRHE, which is in the process of identifying the most appropriate accommodation setting for services assisting pregnant women who are homeless.

It is intended that a model of extended service provision will then be developed and most likely rolled out on a phased basis once such premises have been secured. We have provided two workers to work with Focus Ireland in assisting families in emergency accommodation. In terms of the budget for 2017, I am working with Tusla on identifying if we can provide additional support workers in that regard. I am also discussing this matter with the Department of Health.

To respond to Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire's question, I can give the assurances he seeks.

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