An unannounced inspection of an International Protection Accommodation Service Centre (IPAS) in South Kerry has produced a mixed review.
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) is responsible for evaluating permanent IPAS centres, formerly known as direct provision centres.
Atlantic Lodge Accommodation Centre in Kenmare can accommodate up to 106 international protection applicants, but was home to 69 people of the days of the inspection.
It took place over two days in January of this year, on the 22nd and 23rd.
The centre was compliant with twelve of the 30 standards against which it was compared, substantially compliant with eight, partially compliant with eight more, and not compliant with two.
HIQA stated that residents were happy with the support they received from the staff and spoke highly of them.
The inspectors reported courteous and respectful interactions between staff and residents throughout the two days.
However, they found that the centre was not compliant with Standard 1.1.
They reported the management team did not fully understand the relevant legislation, regulations, policies and standards to protect the residents.
This included not being aware of their responsibilities to notify HIQA of safeguarding incidents.
Inspectors found the centre not compliant in this regard because an adverse incident was not reported to HIQA, as required by policy and law, despite a process to do so being in place.
The management team had received training in areas such as safeguarding vulnerable adults but HIQA reported that this was not evident in their learning from the incident.
As this safeguarding incident wasn't notified to HIQA, Atlantic Lodge Accommodation Centre was also found not compliant with standard 8.3.
The service provider stated that it is implementing a three-year Quality Improvement Strategy, supported by a newly appointed Quality and Compliance Manager.
Measures including reviewing and enhancing reporting systems, updating safeguarding and risk management policies, delivering mandatory training, and introducing new software to improve oversight and record-keeping are currently being implemented.
Inspectors also said the centre had limited facilities for children, and that the dedicated space for children to play or complete homework was not suitable or safe.
However, there is a public playground within walking distance of the centre.
