Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 460: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps which he is taking to address the quality and cost of asylum accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9236/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) is responsible for the accommodation of asylum seekers in accordance with the Government's twin policies of direct provision and dispersal.

The RIA advise me that they are satisfied with the current quality of accommodation provided to asylum seekers and that they operate a robust system of inspection (both internal and independent) which identify any minor difficulties before they become substantial. It may interest the Deputy to know that in the last few weeks, 8 of the direct provision accommodation centres contracted to the RIA received the EIQA Quality Mark. The Deputy will recognise the extent of this achievement and the work required to reach and maintain, on a continuous basis, the standards required under this national quality award. Furthermore, the terms and conditions set out in Memoranda of Agreement with accommodation providers encompass extensive and vigorous legislative and other quality standards which must be adhered to.

In relation to costs, the RIA monitors all costs associated with its accommodation portfolio to ensure the best value for money while maintaining a high standard of service. The RIA is always mindful of the need to spend taxpayers' money in the most appropriate way in fulfilling the State's obligations set out by the UNHCR (Geneva Convention). The RIA is satisfied that it consistently achieves quality and value for money through the checks and balances which ensure quality of service, combined with the value for money reflected in the competitive price achieved by the RIA over a number of years in its operation of the direct provision system.