HIQA Reports Reveal Issues at IPAS Centres: 3 Washers for 89 Residents in Kerry
HIQA reports on IPAS centres revealed critical issues, including only three washing machines for 89 residents in Co Kerry and inadequate family privacy. Maintenance problems and fire safety concerns were noted in other centres. While some facilities received positive feedback, many require significant improvements to meet resident needs and national standards.
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published seven inspection reports on International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres, revealing significant issues. An unannounced inspection at Atlas House in Killarney, Co Kerry, found only three working washing machines and dryers for 89 residents, which inspectors deemed insufficient. Families lacked separate living spaces, leading to crowded conditions and inadequate privacy. Residents also expressed a preference to cook their own meals, despite finding the provided food good.
At Bridgewater House in Co Tipperary, maintenance issues included cobwebs, chipped paint, loose kitchen cabinet doors, a shower leak, and mould. The Dublin Central Inn, while generally positive, had fire doors that did not close properly or were wedged open, prompting a review of fire containment. Here, 119 residents shared four washing machines, one of which was broken, causing queues.
Millstreet Accommodation Centre in Co Cork, housing 271 residents, had “unsatisfactory sleeping arrangements,” with opposite-gender siblings over 10 sharing rooms and parents sharing with children, contrary to national requirements. Fire drills were also deemed inadequate for the centre's size. Conversely, Great Western House in Co Galway, Milligan Court in Co Sligo, and Cúirt Uisce Accommodation Centre in Co Galway received positive reports, with residents supported to live independently and integrate into communities, and adequate facilities like 24/7 kitchens and in-apartment laundry.