An International Protection Centre situated beside Croke Park has been closed by the Department of Justice.
The Department’s Community Engagement Team confirmed it had decided “not to renew the contract at Croke Park Stadium, Century House, North Richmond Street Industrial Estate, Richmond Street North, Dublin 1, D01CC63,” which had been operating as accommodation for people seeking international protection, in correspondence with local councillors, reports Breaking News.
In a statement, the Department said that following “inspections and appraisals,” a decision was made “not to renew the contract” with the service provider running the centre.
Up to 96 residents were notified of the closure on Tuesday, March 10th, and transfer letters were issued the same day. No children were living at the facility, reports Breaking News.
Residents who wished to continue receiving State-supported accommodation were moved to another centre last Thursday.
According to the latest figures released by the Department, 22 contracts with accommodation providers have been terminated, reports Breaking News.
The Department also confirmed that approximately 475 families in direct provision centres have been issued notices to vacate their accommodation this month, despite efforts by the Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE) to halt such notices.
The statement explained that while housing people seeking international protection, the Department of Justice places priority on the welfare and safety of residents, reports Breaking News.
It added that responsibility for meeting statutory and regulatory standards lies with the provider, under the supervision of the relevant oversight body. When contract renewals are under consideration, inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with agreed terms.
Contracts for IPAS accommodation may be ended or not extended for several reasons, such as when either the provider or IPAS opts to terminate, where compliance issues arise, or when agreement on rates cannot be reached, reports Breaking News.
“Compliance concerns arise if a provider is not meeting the required standards of service. They might include health, safety and wellbeing concerns for residents, incorrect charges by providers or unregulated secondary properties, among others,” the statement added.
A spokesperson for the Department acknowledged that relocation can be “very disruptive” for residents, reports Breaking News.
“IPAS (has been) in contact with residents and centre management to keep them informed of relocation plans and to offer support.”
The IPAS resident welfare team is working with centre management and residents to identify specific needs, including those of individuals with medical conditions or students preparing for exams, reports Breaking News.
“While IPAS recognises that people may be integrating into the community, attending education or working, given the dispersed nature of our available accommodation options, new accommodation may not be available in the same area,” the spokesperson noted.
The Department also expressed gratitude to colleagues in the Local Government Management Agency and Dublin City Council, along with local representatives and stakeholders, for “their support for the residents and operation of this centre during its time in use”, reports Breaking News.
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