Accommodation Centres provide accommodation for people who have sought International Protection from their home country. Living in a centre is voluntary and residents can leave at any time. Some International Protection applicants may also choose to live with family or friends already living in the community or can source and provide for their own accommodation.
International Protection Accommodation Service
As a division of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is responsible for the provision of accommodation and related services to people in the International Protection process. Under EU and International Law, Ireland is obliged to examine the claim of any person who arrives into the country and claims International Protection.
IPAS offers accommodation and related services to international protection seekers who wish to accept the offer of accommodation from the Irish State. Living in a centre is completely voluntary and residents may leave at any time and source their own accommodation. Local communitiies across Ireland have helped to create a warm and welcomeing environment for people who have to Ireland seeking protection.
Integration has hugely positive effects for both centres and local communities by fostering friendships and understanding. This results in increased awareness and helps build a more inclusive enviroment.
Govenment supports for local services
Once it is confirmed that an accomodation centre is opening, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth liks in with the other service providers to ensure that the ncessary supports are put in place. In terms of acess to healthcare, where GP Lists are full, the HSE will arrange for access to GPs who have availabity in teh surrounding area. Schools where international protection seeking chidlren are enrolled can appliy to teh Department of Education for any additional resources required, including capitation and teaching resources.
For more Policy IPAS policy documents please go to gov.ie - Policy documents (www.gov.ie)
International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS)
Parenting Guides
The International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) have developed a Parenting Guide to help families in our Accommodation Centres be aware of their responsibilities for the safety and wellbeing of their children.
Link to IPAS national Website for Guide in a number of languages HERE