Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

The safety and well-being of all residents in IPAS centres is of the highest priority for the Government and for the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan. All issues relating to fire safety are taken extremely seriously. When any inspection identifies issues, including those relating to fire safety, a formal process is immediately triggered to bring about a resolution. A written report is provided to the contractor within 14 days detailing all deficiencies. They are contractually bound to respond within a further 14 days on remedying particular problems. Where issues relating to a contractor's track record are of concern, a follow-up inspection is scheduled around the remedial works. I can ask the Minister for justice to send a more detailed submission to the Deputy.

What was set out in The Irish Times, I think, is a point-in-time assessment. It is important that any deficiencies found are responded immediately to by respective contractors to protect the safety and well-being of residents.

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