Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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The International Protection Procurement Service (IPPS) carefully appraises each property that is offered for use as accommodation for international protection (IP) applicants before contracts are issued, and properties are also subject to pre-occupancy inspections to ensure they are adhering to the requisite standards. IPPS advises all potential providers of accommodation of the need to provide sufficient security to protect their property while the appraisal process is underway, and furthermore, to the requirement to maintain the safety and security of the IP applicants for which they will be providing accommodation once contracted.

The provision and management of security staff at IP accommodation centres is a matter for the centre management and service providers and is not dictated by the Department. However, the requirement to have adequate security generally forms part of the contract to accommodate IP applicants. The Department requires that centres are adequately staffed for the running of the centre and that there is a 24/7 staff presence. The particular security needs of each centre are assessed by each provider and agreed with the Department prior to the opening of the centre.

The Department has an obligation to report any allegations of criminality to An Garda Síochána (AGS) once brought to its attention. AGS is responsible for operational policing matters, and where intimidation or criminal acts have occurred, the Department is precluded from commenting or providing detailed information, as it may prejudice any consequent investigations or court cases.

The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is in close contact with An Garda Síochána (AGS) and the management teams of IP accommodation centres in relation to the safety of IP applicants. There is a dedicated AGS Liaison Officer at Inspector level appointed to each IP accommodation centre. The IPAS Centre Management and Compliance Team are in consistent contact with these Liaison Officers in relation to the safety and security of those resident in IP accommodation centres, as well as staff who work in these accommodation centres. IPAS Senior Management also engages with AGS colleagues in relation to the proposed opening of new IP accommodation centres.

The Department also encourages those with information on any suspected criminal activity to report this to the appropriate authorities to be investigated.