Ipas centres: Cockroaches and mould in some centres but many praised for high standards

Reviewing the 86 recent Ipas reports, Cormac O'Keeffe says inspectors found cockroaches in one centre, and widespread issues with mould, damp, and overcrowding in others. But many of the centres were praised as well run

Many Ipas accommodation centres received praise from inspectors for being ‘well run’ and for treating residents with respect and dignity. However, issues raised about some centres include mould and damp, overcrowding, fire hazards, and inadequate security. Picture posed by model

The day inspectors arrived at an accommodation centre for asylum seekers in Tipperary they discovered there was a “cockroach infestation” there.

In two other centres — one in Clare and another in Meath — parents complained of their baby or child having dust allergies aggravated by dirty carpets and poor ventilation.