Today, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has published eight inspection reports on permanent International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres. 

IPAS centres, formerly known as direct provision centres, provide accommodation for people seeking international protection in Ireland.

HIQA inspects the quality and safety of permanent IPAS centres against the National Standards for accommodation offered to people in the protection process (2019).

Reports have been published on:

• Clonakilty Lodge, Co. Cork
• Atlas House Tralee, Co. Kerry
• Viking House, Co. Waterford
• Milligan Court, Co. Sligo
• Atlas House Killarney, Co. Kerry
• Eglinton Centre, Co. Galway
• Johnston Marina, Co. Kerry
• Knockalisheen, Co. Clare.

HIQA found that Milligan Court had no non-compliances against the standards. The remaining seven centres had varying levels of compliance.

Across the inspections conducted, inspectors found examples of good practice, such as the provision of education supports, such as homework clubs, and access to health and social services. Staff members supported residents to access relevant community-based services and activities.

Non-compliance was identified in areas including: accommodation; governance; safeguarding and protection; person-centred care and support; contingency planning and emergency preparedness; and the identification, assessment and response to special needs. For example, in two of the centres, some children shared bedrooms with their parents or siblings of the opposite gender over the age of 10 years old, which was not in line with the requirements of the Housing Act 1966. 

Where non-compliance with the national standards was identified, providers were required to submit compliance plans to demonstrate how they will make improvements and come into compliance with the national standards. 

Notes to the Editor:

• On 9 January 2024, HIQA assumed responsibility for monitoring the quality of permanent International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres provided by the then Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as set out under S.I. No. 649/2023 - European Communities (Reception Conditions) (Amendment) Regulations 2023.