Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether it is acceptable for asylum seekers and their children to be housed in reception centres which lack adequate facilities for any meaningful recreational activity; if he accepts that it is imperative that children and young persons have access to open spaces and sports areas irrespective of their parents' status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45120/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of the Department of Justice and Equality is responsible for the accommodation of asylum seekers in accordance with the Government policy of direct provision. At end September, 2012, RIA was providing accommodation and ancillary services to 4,965 asylum seekers at 36 accommodation centres throughout the State.

The Direct Provision system is unique and there is no direct comparison with other types of accommodation where children would reside, be it houses with gardens or apartment buildings. Some accommodation centres have more outdoor and indoor facilities than others. Of the current 36 asylum centres in RIA's portfolio, only 3 were specifically built for the sole purpose of accommodating asylum seekers, that is, they were 'purpose-built'. All other centres must operate within the physical limitations of the premises' original use e.g. hotel, college dormitory, hostel, etc. While all conform, at the very least, to minimum contractual and legislative standards, there are necessarily a range of facilities available in centres in the overall RIA portfolio, deriving from their original use.

RIA and the management at the centres work with local schools, community groups, sports clubs and NGO's to link children and families into community initiatives, sports and other activities to ensure access to the best available package of services. Children of asylum seekers can access recreational facilities available in the locality in which they are living. Some Direct Provision Centres have on-site playgrounds. Many centres will provide other facilities, for example facilitating parties, and will also facilitate NGO’s who organise outings etc. Centres also have links with local community facilities which allow for free and discounted access to amenities outside of the accommodation centre.

It is worth noting that asylum seeker children benefit from access to primary and secondary education on the same basis as Irish citizen children in the local community, and both schools and the Community Welfare Service are very supportive of those children in assisting with any associated costs in respect of equipment and transport. An exemption from fees for State Examinations is also available to asylum seekers who are holders of medical cards. Homework clubs and quiet spaces are provided in family centres to facilitate children doing their homework.

On-site pre-school services are available in some of the larger direct provision centres. However, in all cases parents may opt to send their children to privately run pre-schools in the community. The Early Child Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme provides for free pre-school placements to all children, including children of asylum seekers in direct provision accommodation.