More than €2m spent on security at closed asylum accommodation centres

More than two million euro has been spent on security at closed sites across the country accommodating people applying for international protection in the last two years, figures have shown. Responding to a written question from Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín, the Department of Justice revealed that two former International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres have ongoing security costs. Security is maintained at two State-owned centres that are currently unoccupied: the Midlands Accommodation Centre, Lissywollen, Co Westmeath; and River Lodge, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow. The department maintains the need for security is informed by previous instances of criminal damage at the sites. In February 2026, officials undertook a review of security services at both sites and, following appraisal, efficiencies were identified which resulted in cost savings. At the River Lodge site, which closed in December 2024, €1,302,515 was spent on security in 2025 and €480,408 in 2026. At the Midlands Accommodation Centre which closed in November 2025, the spend was €54,452 in 2025 and €425,806 in 2026. The combined total security spend across both sites was €1,356,968 in 2025 and €906,215 in 2026. Security for state-owned IPAS centres is provided as part of each site's facilities management that includes catering, health and safety and utilities.