Cork’s Housing Crisis: Thousands Trapped in IPAS Centres

Hundreds of people in Cork are trapped in IPAS centres due to a broken housing system, a Cork TD has claimed. The issue is deeply concerning, with implications extending beyond just the individuals affected and touching the broader community.

State Accommodation: A Temporary Solution

A spokesperson for the Department of Integration shared insights with The Echo. According to them, the state is currently housing almost 33,000 people in these centres. Most of these individuals are undergoing the international-protection application process, which can be lengthy and variable.

As of December 2024, around 5,300 people have been granted protection status or Pre-Removal Direction (PTR). Approximately 450 of these individuals are still residing in IPAS centres across Cork County.

Housing Entitlements & Challenges

Once granted status, individuals gain the same housing entitlements as Irish citizens. They are supported to register with their local authority and can avail of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) to find alternative accommodation. However, the department acknowledges significant housing pressure across Ireland.

The spokesperson emphasized, “The department is very mindful of the challenges that exist for these individuals in trying to move on from the international-protection system, as there is significant pressure on housing availability within the private rental sector, social housing, and the housing market in general.“

Despite these entitlements, the department ensures no one with status is left without accommodation, though there is no formal legal entitlement to provide housing in these circumstances.

Persistent Issues in Cork

HIQA, the Health Information and Quality Authority, has repeatedly highlighted the high percentage of people in Cork IPAS centres who have been granted PTR but remain in accommodation centres. An accommodation centre on the Kinsale Road houses 111 people, or 63% of its residents, who fall into this category.

Commentary from TD Thomas Gould

Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, echoed concerns, stating, “This housing crisis is far-reaching and pervasive. Its impacts are felt by everyone, but most acutely by our most vulnerable.“

Gould noted that many of those trapped in direct provision are essential workers, such as healthcare and retail employees. These individuals have built lives in Cork, fleeing war and persecution, yet face significant challenges in securing housing, even when they have jobs.

He lamented, “The reality is that availability just isn’t there. The housing system is broken.“

National Context

The issue isn’t isolated to Cork. Nationally, 5,300 people who have been granted status or PTR still reside in IPAS centres. Meanwhile, last year, 3,000 international-protection applicants were without an offer of accommodation due to a lack of available places.

Conclusion

Cork’s housing crisis exemplifies a systemic issue affecting thousands of vulnerable individuals. While the Department of Integration acknowledges the challenges and provides support, the strain on the housing system remains a significant concern. Continued efforts are necessary to address the root causes and provide sustainable solutions for those in need.

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