AQW 8904/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 14/03/2024
Answered On Date: 28/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for their assessment of key finding 1.2 of the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration's report, An inspection of contingency asylum accommodation for families with children in Northern Ireland.

Answer:

My Department is committed to working with key delivery partners to ensure that the length of stay of those living in contingency accommodation is as short as possible. Since the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration report was completed, a Data Sharing Agreement (DSA) has been established between the contracted accommodation providers MEARS and statutory services. This DSA supports the efficient flow of information to the HSC Trusts and allows them to meet their statutory obligations in meeting the health and social care needs of individuals seeking international protection in Northern Ireland.