Urgent Update: Buncrana Accommodation Centre Clarifies Fire Safety Concerns

UPDATE: The Sailors Rest Accommodation Centre in Buncrana has urgently clarified fire safety concerns following misleading reports. Donegal Daily initially suggested the facility posed a “major fire risk,” but officials have confirmed that the inspection only raised procedural issues regarding a single fire drill.

The report, conducted by the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS), found that while there were 135 registered residents, only 86 residents were present during the fire drill due to legitimate reasons such as night-shift work and medical appointments. The centre is reported to be “well-run,” with residents expressing satisfaction about their living conditions.

In a statement, the centre’s operators emphasized that the claims of a major fire risk are unfounded and dangerous, potentially inciting hostility and endangering both residents and staff. They highlighted that the facility is equipped with 11 fire exits, a valid fire-safety certificate, and a compliant smoke detection system with 160 detectors throughout the building.

Following the fire drill on January 7, procedures have been enhanced, including improved communication and varied drill scheduling. In a subsequent unannounced drill on March 15, all 124 residents present were evacuated in just six minutes, showcasing effective emergency response protocols.

Earlier, on December 8, 2024, another unannounced drill demonstrated strong fire safety performance, with all 53 residents evacuating within 5 minutes and 30 seconds. These results reaffirm the centre’s commitment to safety, contradicting earlier claims of a serious fire risk.

The operators stated, “Such false reporting risks inciting hostility and far-right targeting at a time when accommodation centres have been subjected to arson attacks.” They expressed regret for the distress caused to residents and their families.

Donegal Daily has acknowledged the inaccuracies in its reporting and issued a formal apology to the operators of the Sailors Rest Centre, emphasizing the need for balanced and responsible journalism, especially on critical issues affecting vulnerable populations.

This urgent clarification underscores the importance of accurate reporting on facilities housing international protection applicants, especially in light of rising tensions and incidents targeting such centres. The public is urged to share this information to ensure a clear understanding of the situation at the Sailors Rest Accommodation Centre in Buncrana.