Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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68. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the progress made regarding the outstanding industrial relations issues at Oberstown detention centre concerning safety of staff and detainees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14778/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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I am anxious to see an early resolution to all the issues in the Oberstown Children Detention Campus (Oberstown). The safety and well-being of young people and staff in Oberstown is my primary concern.

The planned industrial action by staff which was due to commence at Oberstown on 3rd January was deferred on 22 December 2016. Deferment of the industrial action was secured following agreement for an independent review on health and safety matters including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff. On foot of the report of the independent review, a group has been established which is chaired by an independent expert and includes the Oberstown health and safety committee members, representation from Oberstown staff unions and a children's advocate. A recommendation on the options is to be made by the group to the Director of the Campus.

Additionally Oberstown management and staff representative unions are continuing to meet under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission in respect of the implementation of the Forde Framework Agreement of August 2016.

I am determined to ensure that Oberstown is safe and secure for children and staff and I will work with all parties in this regard.