Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
888. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline the process undertaken by his Department when an IPAS accommodation centre is subject to planning enforcement action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11656/26]
View answerThere are 311 IPAS Accommodation Centres in operation nationwide, accommodating over 33,000 people who have applied for international protection.
Due to the increase in applications seen from 2022 onward, most of these accommodation centres are commercially provided, under contract to the Department.
In the case of all contracted IPAS accommodation centres, all planning matters are between the local authority and the accommodation service provider.
The contracted provider remains responsible for meeting all aspects of building regulatory matters, compliance and service provision at the property.
The Department works closely with local authorities nationwide, and while enforcement orders in relation to IPAS centres are uncommon, the Department will comply with any planning enforcement orders made.
In some instances, a provider may seek to appeal a matter before the courts. In these cases, the Department and/or the local authority must allow for conclusion of court proceedings, before progressing any further action required.
With respect to potential for contract renewals, the provision of accommodation for international protection applicants is demand-led, which remains high, and each premises is considered on a case-by-case basis to decide if the contract will be renewed as it approaches its end date.
At potential renewal stage, consideration will be given to the current and projected demand for accommodation, the provider's performance under contract, and compliance with standards and legal obligations, including planning and building regulations.
All contracts that are being renewed, and any new contract entered into since 2025, must be accompanied by the appropriate documentation to verify their compliance with the relevant planning regulations.
The Government is increasing the proportion of State-owned accommodation in this sector, and any planning or regulatory matters relating to State-owned centres are progressed between the Department and the relevant local authority.
