Today, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has published three 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:

• Bridgewater House, Co. Tipperary
• Dídean Portlaoise, Co. Laois
• Mosney Village, Co. Meath

HIQA found that the three centres had varying levels of compliance against the standards. 

Across the inspections conducted, inspectors found examples of good practice, including access to health and social services; well-equipped cooking facilities for preparing meals and staff members supporting residents to access relevant community-based services and activities.

Some improvements required were identified across the centres, such as the monitoring and reviewing of the quality of care and experience of children and adults; access to facilities for children to complete homework and study; sufficient fire drills; and staff members being permitted to enter residents’ homes when they were not present.

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.