State adds more than 700 new beds to International Protection system
The rise has come as the State tries to clamp down on the number of applications for protection, new figures show.
The State currently accommodates more than 33,000 people in over 320 accommodation sites. Around 9,400 are children. There has been a net increase of more than 700 beds added to the International Protection system this year. Pic: Getty Images
In August 2021, the State was accommodating approximately 7,000 people, meaning the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) have had to increase capacity by almost 400%.
Currently, over 90% of all IPAS accommodation is provided commercially. In response to a parliamentary question from Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon, Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan confirmed the rise in beds.
He said: 'In 2025, eight IPAS accommodation contracts have been terminated to date, accounting for approximately 140 bed spaces. I am informed that reasons for termination can vary, but can include non-compliance with contractual terms or with regulatory requirements like building and fire regulations, or planning matters. In the same period, 12 new IPAS accommodation contracts have been agreed, accounting for capacity of up to 848 bed spaces.' Gary Gannon. Pic: Gareth Chaney/Collins Photos
This means the State has added 708 extra beds into the system so far this year.
Mr O'Callaghan said all offers of emergency accommodation were appraised by a dedicated team according to a range of factors.
'These include the site and its potential, value for money to the State, due diligence on the provider, and planning and regulatory matters,' the Fianna Fáil TD added. Jim O'Callaghan. Pic: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie
'Consideration is also given to the location and locality, access to services and health, wellbeing and security factors.'
He said the shift to more state-owned accommodation would align with 'wider reforms of the immigration system' under the EU Migration Pact to be implemented by summer 2026.
'The reforms being progressed should serve to support the protection of applicants' rights through the process, and avoid the need for very prolonged stays in temporary accommodation centres,' the minister said.
There is also a push to increase the proportion of accommodation provided on State-owned sites.
The development of a sustainable accommodation system over the coming months and years is designed to reduce reliance on commercial providers over time.
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