Oberstown Refused 12 Boys in Past Year, Minister Orders Capacity Increase to 44

Oberstown Children Detention Campus refused to accept 12 boys sent by courts in the past year, including 10 in October, due to being full. Despite warnings from management about adverse impacts, Minister for Children Norma Foley instructed the north Co Dublin campus to increase its capacity for boys.

The increase is being staggered: from 40 to 42 boys has been implemented, with another increase to 44 boys planned for September. Oberstown has a total capacity for 46 children, comprising up to 40 boys and six girls in separate units. The boys’ units are frequently full, and increasing their numbers without additional accommodation leads to higher occupancy in some units, with mixed-gender units deemed unsafe.

Following the increase to 42 boys on March 31st, «highly problematic» restrictions were imposed, leading to increased anxiety and disruptive behavior. Minutes from an April 2nd meeting noted one unit was on restricted movement, preventing boys from leaving the residential unit. April 9th minutes recorded staff opposition and Oberstown's concern that the situation could worsen.

Documents released under Freedom of Information show significant resistance from Oberstown. Director Damien Hernon requested reconsideration on February 11th, citing risks from overcrowding and staffing challenges, referencing injuries at an Australian detention center. Koulia Yiasouma, Oberstown chairwoman, also warned Minister Foley and Assistant Secretary Lara Hynes of service deterioration without additional resources. Department officials countered that unmet court requests created an «emergency situation» impacting the youth justice system. Minister Foley intends to increase certified capacity for boys by four during 2026, with monitoring planned. Staff safety issues raised by the Fórsa trade union are now before the Workplace Relations Commission.