HIQA Report Highlights Governance Failures in Asylum Accommodation Centres

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has raised serious concerns over governance failures in Ireland’s asylum accommodation centres, revealing that more than half of the facilities inspected in 2024 lacked effective management systems. In its latest report, HIQA detailed findings from a year-long assessment of 51 International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres, highlighting significant deficiencies in governance, risk management, and safeguarding measures. According to the report, 56% of the centres had poor or no governance structures, making it difficult for service providers to oversee staff performance and risk levels effectively. Additionally, 37% of centres lacked policies and procedures to protect residents from harm, while 35% of staff working in these facilities had not undergone proper vetting by An Garda Síochána.

The report also found that 41% of asylum seekers residing in these centres had already received refugee status or permission to remain in Ireland but were unable to leave due to a lack of alternative housing. Furthermore, nearly 75% of service providers had limited or no systems in place to identify and monitor risks within their facilities. While some accommodation providers were found to be delivering safe and high-quality services, HIQA emphasized that the system requires significant improvements to ensure proper governance and oversight.

Bronagh Gibson, who leads HIQA’s monitoring of IPAS centres, warned that the international protection accommodation system is not adequately resourced to meet the increasing demand. She noted that these deficiencies have had a direct impact on the quality of services and living conditions for asylum seekers. Gibson urged providers to strengthen their focus on risk management and implement effective safeguarding measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

The findings come at a time of growing strain on Ireland’s asylum system, with increasing numbers of people seeking international protection and limited housing options available. HIQA’s report underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to improve governance, oversight, and risk management in asylum accommodation centres, ensuring that all residents receive safe and dignified living conditions.