Record Deaths in IPAS Accommodation Raise Concerns

A record number of individuals residing in the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) faced tragic outcomes in 2025, with 23 deaths reported, marking the highest annual count since records began in 2002. This figure has risen sharply from 15 deaths recorded in 2024. The data, obtained from the Department of Justice, indicates that 16 men and seven women died while living in accommodation intended for refugees and asylum seekers. Since 2002, a total of 152 residents have lost their lives while in IPAS facilities.

The circumstances surrounding these deaths reveal that 20 occurred offsite, while three took place within the accommodation itself. The previous figures released, which were current to the end of February 2025, included reports of 23 children aged two years and younger who had died, a number that has since increased by four. In addition, a young person aged between 13 and 17 also passed away since the last update.

“Any death is a tragic event,” stated a spokesperson for the Department of Justice. The spokesperson emphasized the impact on family, friends, and staff, noting that they cannot disclose the identities of deceased residents or provide any specific details regarding their families. The spokesperson also highlighted the increase in the number of individuals residing in IPAS, which rose by more than 25% between 2023 and 2024.

The Department clarified that there is no legal requirement for any individual or organization to inform IPAS of a current or former resident’s death. Consequently, there may be instances where a resident, who had recently vacated IPAS accommodation, passes away without notification to the Centre Manager or IPAS.

Challenges in IPAS Accommodation

The rising number of deaths is compounded by separate data indicating that thousands of individuals with legal status to remain in Ireland continue to reside in IPAS facilities, sometimes for prolonged periods. According to figures released by the Department of Justice under Freedom of Information, as of October 31, 2025, there were 4,901 individuals with status still living in IPAS accommodation. Among them, 579 had their status secured for at least three years, while 390 individuals had remained in IPAS for two years or longer after being granted status.

The outflow from IPAS was significantly lower, with only 1,490 single individuals, 41 couples, and 362 families leaving the accommodation last year. Additionally, 109 single individuals, four couples, and 109 families transferred to alternative arrangements, while 410 individuals had their relocations placed on hold due to various reasons, including welfare and medical concerns.

The responsibility for IPAS accommodation was reassigned to the Department of Justice in May 2025. In response to a parliamentary inquiry, Norma Foley, Minister for Children, outlined the ongoing transfer processes for individuals with established status. She remarked that individuals who have held their status the longest are being prioritized for transfers to emergency accommodation. This initiative began in September 2022, targeting single individuals with status first.

To date, approximately 3,300 households have been informed about their transfer to alternative emergency accommodation, with arrangements made across various counties in Ireland. The International Protection Accommodation Service will continue to house those who have received status until they can transition to community accommodation.

Emerging Homelessness Issues

Concerns are growing regarding the number of families exiting IPAS only to find themselves in emergency accommodation. Data from the Dublin Region Homeless Executive revealed an increase in the number of families transitioning from IPAS to emergency housing, rising from 29 in 2024 to 69 in 2025. Conversely, the number of single individuals leaving IPAS and subsequently becoming homeless decreased from 559 to 450.

Kate Fitzsimons, Head of Operations at the Mendicity charity in Dublin, noted that many individuals with status tend to relocate to Dublin, seeking better employment and accommodation opportunities. However, the Local Connection Test—requiring applicants to demonstrate a link to a specific council area—can complicate these transitions.

Mike Allen, Head of Advocacy at Focus Ireland, expressed concern over the increasing number of families leaving IPAS and entering emergency accommodation, highlighting the challenges faced by those from the Direct Provision system in accessing private rental housing due to a lack of references and other barriers.

A report by ActionAid emphasized that lone parent migrant families face significant challenges, including unaffordable rents and discrimination during their housing searches.

A representative from the County and City Management Association (CCMA), which represents local authorities, stated that local authorities are committed to supporting individuals transitioning out of homelessness. They affirmed that the resources and support required for transitioning individuals from IPAS to housing are the responsibility of central government, specifically the Department of Justice and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

As the situation evolves, the interplay between IPAS accommodation, homelessness, and the broader housing crisis remains a critical concern for policymakers and advocates alike.