Mould, overcrowding and prohibited items among issues highlighted in direct provision centres

Darragh Mc Donagh

Mould, overcrowding, and the presence of prohibited items, including alcohol and knives, were among the issues identified during a series of recent inspections at direct provision and emergency accommodation centres.

A lack of on-site security, problems with smoke alarms and CCTV, as well as inadequate laundry facilities, were also observed by inspectors from the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

The floor of one apartment at an accommodation centre in Cork was found to be in “such a state of disrepair” that it prevented the door from opening, causing a serious fire-safety issue.

A number of centres were also found to be accommodating adults in bunk beds, while renovation works were being carried out in one property with the residents still in place.

The department published inspection reports from 18 properties located in five counties today (Monday). The inspections were carried out between November 2025 and the end of last month.

An inspector encountered no security upon his arrival at Mallow Accommodation Centre on March 25, entering the premises uncontested and walking straight into an apartment because builders had left the door open.

No fire safety records were available at the centre, while mould was found in some bathrooms, and all apartments were described as overcrowded. Bunk beds were used throughout the centre, according to the report.

A “large amount” of mould was also observed in the Capuchin Accommodation in Carlow on February 24, and a number of rooms were overcrowded. There was insufficient storage for residents, and bathroom fans were not working.

Elsewhere in Carlow, the Bank House and Didean accommodation centre were both described as “well-run” locations, although prohibited items, including alcohol and knives, were found in the latter.

In Cavan, inadequate CCTV coverage was identified as an issue at Coleman Court Apartments, while bedrooms were described as overcrowded. Mould was found in a number of apartments, and food was being stored on the floor of the kitchen.

There was evidence of smoking and alcohol consumption in bedrooms, contrary to rules, and inspectors said a “deep clean” of all communal areas and kitchens was required.

In Clare, there was an inadequate number of washers and dryers for residents at the Burren Castle Hotel, and the contractor was reminded that bunk beds were not suitable for individuals aged over 15.

At King Thomond, mould and peeling paint were observed, and several rooms appeared to be overcrowded, according to the report. Bedrooms were cluttered, and beds were missing from two rooms. A shower was also being used for storage.

Several accommodation centres in Clare and Cork were found to be well-run and well-maintained, including at Abbeyville House, where the manager and staff were praised for treating residents with “respect and dignity”.

In many centres, management was instructed to remove prohibited electrical items from bedrooms, including fridges and fans. The department is expected to publish further inspection reports in the coming days.