Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

727. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the direction he has given to the providers of catering in direct provision centres to accommodate the altered eating patterns of Muslim asylum seekers during Ramadan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22248/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

All of my Department’s international protection accommodation centres are contractually bound to provide menus that reasonably meet the dietary needs of the different ethnic, cultural and religious groups accommodated at the centre and the reasonable prescribed dietary needs of any person accommodated at the centre including the provision of a vegetarian option.

All accommodation centres that offer catered options must provide three meals per day and must have a range of snacks and non-alcoholoic beverages readily available. 

In addition contractors must consult with residents and resdient committees in the accommodation centres in relation to preferences for inclusion of specific foods on menus or any dietary requirement that they have and where possible this is facilitated.  Arrangements are also be made to cater for any particular religious requirements of residents such as observing Ramadan.

The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) communicates directly with centre managers and residents via regular newsletters. 

Prior to the start of Ramadan, the IPAS prepared and circulated information for centre managers and residents with practical supports on observing Ramadan during the current Covid-19 restrictions.  The newsletter is available at  https://www.accommodationcentres.ie/newsletters-updates/ .