Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I would again stress the importance of due diligence. That is why there are queries at times. As I said, the Minister has engaged with Pobal and the team that processes HAP. With regard to the International Protection Accommodation Service, IPAS, contracts are agreed in terms of capacity for an IPAS centre, as specified in the individual contract. Payments under the agreed contracts, inclusive of VAT, will be made every four weeks, as specified, and the Deputy mentioned that. This amounts to an all-inclusive sum in respect of provision of accommodation and all the other services outlined in the agreement. IPAS can confirm that all payments are made four weeks in advance. As of 28 February, there are currently no outstanding payments to IPAS accommodation providers.

The scale of the response and the challenges it presents extend not only to the initial provision of accommodation but also supporting ancillary systems. I have notes on the parliamentary questions and representations the Deputy made. I wish to reiterate that the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is conscious of the need to expedite payments. I understand the distress and frustration that payment delays can cause providers and regret that delays remain an issue despite the Department's best efforts.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth continues to pursue improvements. I can assure the House that the Department is according this issue the very highest priority. The Department is committed to maintaining a practice of more timely payments to ensure that all those who assist those fleeing this unjust war are paid for their services.

The Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, wishes to acknowledge and thank the staff in the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth who are involved in processing invoices. As has been mentioned, the scale is, and continues to be, significant. Many people have worked extended nights and over weekends to assist in reducing the backlog. I thank them for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to helping to process as many payments as possible.

See this speech in context