Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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597. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his attention has been drawn to the situation in a direct provision centre (details supplied) in which residents are refusing the meals provided in protest at the standard and suitability of food and have been refused access to raw food to prepare their own meals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11582/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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I am aware of the concerns that have been raised by the residents of Ashbourne House Accommodation Centre. I take complaints from residents very seriously. The health and wellbeing of all residents is the highest priority for both myself and my officials in the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS).

Following receipt of correspondence to me from the residents, IPAS immediately contacted the management of Ashbourne House who met with residents’ representatives to discuss their concerns.

IPAS held a virtual clinic on Monday 22 February for residents in the centre to give them an opportunity to elaborate further on their concerns. IPAS undertook to look at the issues raised with a view to resolving them.

I am happy to report that the residents have ended their protest and the management of Ashbourne House are working with them to improve the facilities and to resolve the issues raised.