Citywest Hotel IPAS Centre Rolling Update

Paul Gogarty TD
Nov 7
51 min read

Updated: 9 hours ago

Rolling update following news reports on 22nd May 2025 - and confirmation on 17th June - of Government plans to purchase part of the former Citywest Hotel and Conference Centre site, currently used as an IPAS centre. This news has caused concern in terms of local capacity as well as the long-term loss of a valuable community amenity for the residents of Saggart, Citywest and Rathcoole. The former golf course of the hotel has already got planning permission as a cemetery. I have been raising this issue constantly on behalf of residents.

Shortcuts: Departmental "Community Engagement" link

My speech in Dáil condemning purchase announcement

21st November - Briefing meeting with Minister and Community Engagement Team

Report to be posted shortly, including update regarding Rathcoole Garda station opening hours .

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20th November - Attended AGM of Saggart Village Residents Association

Congratulations to the incoming committee. I look forward to working constructively with everyone over the coming year.

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18th November - Latest PQ replies

Answers to all questions except Garda ones which were deemed to be in remit of Commissioner (see update coming on Rathcoole Garda station).

Question:

737. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the plans in place to reopen the leisure centre at a location (details supplied), to ensure it remains open in the long-term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61277/25]

View answer

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

741. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if a review of security staffing numbers has taken place or will take place in relation to the Citywest Hotel campus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61283/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

I propose to take Questions Nos. 737 and 741 together.

The Department is aware that the leisure centre at the Citywest Hotel and Convention centre complex is a valued local amenity with approximately 3,000 members. Following the purchase of the complex, the Department contracted the current provider to oversee the management and provision of service for the gym and the existing workforce was maintained under the transitional agreement.

Due to the public disorder outside of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre campus, access had to be restricted to the campus for residents, staff, and members of the public accessing services including the leisure centre and restaurant. This measure was taken to protect the safety of all people who may be on the campus.

Members of the leisure centre were informed about the access restrictions and refund arrangements by the management. I can further advise the Deputy that community members and representatives were informed on Friday November 7 that members of the gym would be facilitated with access to the Leisure Centre from Tuesday November 11. A number of measures have been put in place to facilitate initial reopening and correspondence has issued to all members to inform them of the reopening of the gym and the new measures in place.

An Garda Síochána is working closely with the Department regarding security arrangements at the campus and this is being kept under regular review. Public access to the campus, including the leisure centre, remains restricted at this time and there will be ongoing communication including with local public representatives in respect of any update to this.

It is not appropriate for the Department to disclose detailed information about security arrangements in this context.

International Protection

Questions (738)

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

738. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his views on information made available through FOI requests in relation to antisocial behaviour, drug use and dealing and security incidents at a facility(details supplied); the number of individuals in total who have been recorded in each year from 2023 to date for such various breaches; the enhanced plans being put in place to protect other residents on the campus and the wider community from such individuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61278/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

The Department, An Garda Síochána, and a range of local partners and stakeholders have been working hard to respond to the ongoing very difficult events of recent weeks in the vicinity of Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre.

In relation to your questions on incidents at the accommodation centres provided on the site for both people from Ukraine, and people applying for international protection, information released by my Department indicates a high degree of vigilance and reporting of incidents by staff and officials.

Facilities management at Citywest have a close working relationship with An Garda Síochána at both Clondalkin and Rathcoole stations. This includes continuous liaison, regular meetings, security updates, and Community Gardaí involvement.

It is important to note, An Garda Síochána has clearly stated that there is no correlation between an increase in crime rates and the location of international protection accommodation.

In relation to security arrangements on the site, my officials are working closely with An Garda Síochána at this time, and keeping such arrangements under careful review. It is not appropriate for the Department to disclose detailed information about security arrangements in this context.

My officials and the Department’s Community Engagement Team remains in touch with all key local stakeholders, and will continue to assist and work with local representatives and community groups.

International Protection

Questions (739)

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

739. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current and future plans for the use of the address hotel, Citywest as an international protection location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61279/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

The International Protection Procurement Service (IPPS) had received an offer of accommodation for people seeking international protection at this property, however the property is no longer under consideration.

International Protection

Questions (740)

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

740. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline in full his proposal to make a site available for a Garda station on the Citywest Hotel campus; the precise communications with the Garda Commissioner in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61280/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

The State purchased the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre in August 2025, and my Department’s Community Engagement team have been meeting with and hearing from local stakeholders since June 2025 as part of the purchase process.

Community members and elected representatives have raised suggestions about local services as part of these engagements. These suggestions have included the potential development of a new Garda Station in Saggart.

This and other suggestions will be considered in the context of the Government's commitment to listening to local people and leaders, and helping to support the delivery of services in the area.

Question No. 741 answered with Question No. 737.

Question:

742. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to amend the current policy of the community engagement team not routinely meeting with individual residents and to facilitate a consultation day (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61284/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

The Community Engagement Team (CET) was established in late 2023 to engage directly with elected representatives, local authorities, community members and service providers, in advance of a new centre opening.

Access to wider public services such as health and education services for IP applicants is set out in Irish and EU law, and this is planned for and provided by the HSE, the Department of Education and other cross-Government services.

As such, IPAS and the CET are in regular contact with NGOs, Community Fora, local services, the HSE, Education services, An Garda Síochána and others, to help prepare for a new centre and new arrivals.

Since its establishment, the CET has worked through the openings of over 130 IPAS and Ukraine accommodation centres. Some of these have involved a simple sharing of information through the relevant channels, while others have involved more detailed meetings with local community groups, local officials, public representatives and other key stakeholders.

The CET responds to local requests for meetings, adjusting to the needs of the relevant community, and this has often involved meeting local resident groups, representatives and individuals.

The team also supports information sharing through a dedicated email service for queries from local groups about new and existing centres.

There have been many consistent examples of meaningful and productive engagement, and service providers and elected representatives around the country demonstrate ongoing support for our work and for our residents.

In relation to larger State-owned sites, the model of engagement has been developed to plan for more meaningful dialogue to support these larger centres, particularly those on state-owned lands being developed under Government policy to move away from dependence on commercial providers.

As part of the Programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland’s Future, there is a commitment to expand the work of the CET to provide for detailed discussions with communities and to plan more effectively for delivery of increased public services.

International Protection

Questions (743, 744)

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

743. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the references to Irish cultural norms, including in relation to interactions with women and children in public and activities considered antisocial behaviour are contained in the current edition of the IPAS Resident Handbook; when an update is planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61286/25]

View answer

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

744. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if any classes or exams in relation to Irish cultural norms, including in relation to interactions with women and children in public and activities considered antisocial behaviour have taken place at the Citywest Hotel site, or are scheduled in the near future; if there are any locations where such training currently takes place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61287/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

I propose to take Questions Nos. 743 and 744 together.

All residents of IPAS accommodation are provided with a dedicated IPAS Resident Handbook - this handbook contains information about Ireland, the international protection process, supports available to persons in the protection process and information about practical services like schools and community services.

The handbook is available online at the link below:

https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/IPAS_House_Rules_and_Procedures_2025.pdf

A range of other support services are provided directly to people in IPAS accommodation centres to support them to settle in, and to support them in their day to day needs while they are resident with us.

This includes an IPAS customer service team, who is available online, or at resident clinics on site, to assist people to resolve any issues that arise in their accommodation, including responding to and resolving complaints.

IPAS provides a resident welfare service, which assists residents in accessing wider needs from other agencies or Government Departments and looks at people's welfare needs, e.g. health and social care, education or other entitlements and needs.

My Department also provides funding for integration teams within each Local Authority, and a range of funding schemes for communities, to support integration of people who newly arrive to an area.

The Local Authority Integration Teams provide a range of supports to both new and longer-term residents, connecting them with the wider community as a whole.

Education and Training Board and other education supports are provided to people in IPAS accommodation, many of the integration and community supports provided focus on helping people to find work so that they can build independence and integrate within their communities.

They also offer English language classes and further education and training to refugees, people arriving from Ukraine and eligible international protection applicants to help them to find work.

The rules are explicit that violence and sexual harassment are not tolerated, could result in a withdrawal of IPAS accommodation, and will be reported to An Garda Síochána.

Question No. 744 answered with Question No. 743.

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7th November 2025 - Official update regarding reopening of leisure centre on 11t November

“As explained in our previous correspondence, due to the public disorder outside of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre campus, access had to be restricted to the campus for residents, staff, and members of the public accessing services including the leisure centre. This measure was taken to protect the safety of all people who may be on the campus.

“The Department is working closely with An Garda Síochána regarding security arrangements at the campus and have put in place a number of measures which are outlined below.

Access to the Leisure Centre for members

”As you are aware, the State purchased the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre in August 2025, as an important aspect of the implementation of the Comprehensive Accommodation Strategy for international protection which aims to build a more sustainable International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) system for the longer term.

”The Department is aware that the Leisure Centre at the Citywest Hotel and Convention centre complex is a valued local amenity with approximately 3,000 members. Following the purchase of the complex, the Department contracted the current provider to oversee the management and provision of service for the gym and the existing workforce was maintained under the transitional agreement.

“It is planned to facilitate access to the Leisure Centre for members from Tuesday 11 November. A number of measures have been put in place to facilitate access to the Leisure Centre including;

Opening hours are 6am – 6pm Monday to Friday and 8m – 6pm Saturday to Sunday. The hours of opening will be kept under review.
There will be designated carparking for members accessing the Leisure Centre – signage will direct people.
There will be a security presence at the Leisure Centre car park.
Correspondence will be issuing to all members of the Leisure Centre to inform them of the reopening of the gym and the new measures in place to facilitate this.

Security at Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre

“The safety and well-being of all residents in International Protection accommodation and State-provided accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine who are beneficiaries of temporary protection, is the highest priority for the Department.

Due to the public disorder outside of the campus and threats to and intimidation of centre residents, it is necessary to strengthen security measures.

The following measures are in place and will be continuously reviewed by the Department and An Garda Síochána.

Barriers erected by An Garda Síochána at the front entrance to the campus will remain in place for now.
The requirement for a Garda presence will be continuously reviewed.
A security hut will be maintained at the entrance gate.
There will be a one-way system for cars and pedestrians through the main entrance to the campus.

Round Gardens residential complex

As a security measure, the pedestrian entrance beside the Round Gardens complex will remain closed to the public and residents at the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre. Please note residents of the Round Apartments are not restricted from accessing their apartments through their normal entrance.”

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4th November 2025 - Latest round of Dáil questions submitted

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration what plans are in place to reopen the leisure centre on the Citywest Hotel Campus, to ensure it remains open in the long term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline current and future plans for the use of the Address Hotel, Citywest as an International Protection location; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline in full its proposal to make a site available for a Garda Station on the Citywest Hotel campus; to outline the precise communications with the Garda Commissioner in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline the likely earliest timescale for the construction and commissioning of a Garda station at the Citywest Hotel site to date of opening were it to be sanctioned on January 1, 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration what communications have taken place with the Garda Commissioner with a view to reversing the reduction of actual available Gardaí at Rathcoole by an estimated 11 personnel over the last number of years and to increase staffing levels above this point and lengthen station hours of operation; given increasing populations and security issues at and surrounding the adjacent Citywest Hotel IPAS centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth to outline what references to Irish cultural norms, including in relation to interactions with women and children in public and activities considered antisocial behaviour are contained in the current edition of the IPAS Resident Handbook, when an update is planned; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth to outline if any classes or exams in relation to Irish cultural norms, including in relation to interactions with women and children in public and activities considered antisocial behaviour have taken place at the Citywest Hotel site, or are scheduled in the near future; to outline if there are any locations where such training currently takes place; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if a review of security staffing numbers has taken place or will take place in relation to the Citywest Hotel campus; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will comment on information made available through FOI requests in relation to antisocial behaviour, drug use/dealing and security incidents at Citywest Hotel; to outline how many individuals in total have been recorded in each year from 2023 to date for such various breaches; to outline what enhanced plans are being put in place to protect other residents on the campus and the wider community from such individuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to amend the current policy of the Community Engagement Team not routinely meeting with individual residents and to facilitate a "consultation day" whereby residents can pre-book ticketed slots to express their views on a one to one basis at multiple tables over a period of four to six hours; where such views can be tabulated and responses formulated so that people feel they are being listened to; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

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31st October - More queries to follow when Dáil resumes

As well as the timeline issue I will be seeking further information on the status of the leisure centre going forward as well as the space being “made available” for a Garda station, subject to a decision by the Garda Commissioner.

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23rd October - Ideas for follow up, including requests for "exit timelines" from Minister

I have had a number of requests for follow up queries to the Minister, which I am looking at. and will submit shortly. I also have a number ideas myself and in addition to items like security on-campus, community policing and community dividend, I also believe that the Minister - even if the Government has completed the purchase - should be looking at giving a number of exit timelines based on processing speed improvements, any reduction in overall applicants and a "fair deal" for communities being asked to shoulder the burden of a massive increase in transient population.

Ifyou have suggestions that might be workable, please send then on.

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22nd October - Information note sent to elected representatives by "Community Engagement Team"

This letter provides some background, from the Department's perspective, about the current sensitive situation. I am sharing the pdf in the interests of transparency. It is not an endorsement, but some of the information is useful in this instance:

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21st October (4) - Condemnation of violent behaviour at protest outside Citywest Hotel complex

As someone who has been constantly raising issues on behalf of local residents who have genuine concerns about Citywest Hotel's use as an IPAS centre, I can understand the shock and fear that the alleged attack on the poor girl caused. The Government has foisted this plan on people and its new improved consultation process still leaves a lot to be desired after ongoing complaints. While efforts are being made to speed up the vetting process we have a situation where large numbers of asylum seekers still come here seeking international protection and end up staying here years, even though they have been found not to be fleeing persecution. The system can't cope and unsuitable locations are being used. There have been numerous complaints about antisocial behaviour, drinking and drug taking both within the grounds and in the surrounding Citywest/Saggart/Rathcoole area and so far a wholly inadequate response.

These concerns need to be taken on board. But this does not excuse any violent or antisocial behaviour by those purporting to show solidarity with a vulnerable girl. This was not a peaceful protest. Those who organised it originally may have intended it to be such, but it was hijacked by the usual suspects, home-grown imports to Saggart who could not care less about children. If they did they would also have thought about the many children residing in Citywest Hotel complex who would have been very frightened with a police van set on fire, glass bottles and bricks being thrown and fireworks aimed at Gardaí. People charging on horseback. These goons don't represent Saggart. They want to foment hatred to suit their own agenda and don't care about the collateral damage, often directed at the many innocent immigrants who live here and work here. They have not helped the cause one iota and some political dog whistlers who hang around on the outskirts have a lot of questions to answer.

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21st October (3) - Briefing with Ministers O'Callaghan and Foley following alleged attack on 10-year-old girl

Elected TDs for the area were invited to a meeting with Ministers and their staff following the sexual assault. This meeting took place at 4:15pm. We were given an update from the perspective of both Departments. Minister Foley said that she has asked the National Review Panel to look at how the situation was managed by Tusla and to issue an interim report as soon as possible rather than wait for a long report.

Minister O'Callaghan provided some information beyond what was available in media reports and this included clarifying a number of details. However he was conscious that there was a balance between providing information for dissemniation publicly and ensuring that such information did not interfere with a Garda investigation or any legal proceedings.

What was discussed separate to this was the continued lack of any meaningful response by Government to reassure locals that action is being taken in issues such as local Garda numbers, security at the site and surrounds, any community dividend. and long term plans. I suggested a provisional exit date assuming numbers of applicants fall and processing times reduce. All Dublin Mid-West TDs were present, two Government and three Opposition and in fairness all strongly urged the Minister for Justice to ensure that engagement levels are improved.

There was a fear expressed that some extreme elements would try and hijack any peaceful protest at the site and regrettably this is what happened.

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21st October (2) - Questions on policy or promised legislation - attack raised in Dáil

At around 3pm on Tuesday I had a one-minute slot scheduled querying the Taoiseach so I used it to raise issues around the attack, most immediately in relation to Tusla. I will post the video when it is available.

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21st October 2025 (1) - Sexual assault on young girl in vicinity of Citywest Hotel

I was saddened to hear news of a serious sexual assault (some reports say rape) of a 10-year-old girl in or around the grounds of Citywest IPAS centre yesterday. Media coverage suggests that the man who has been arrested, charged and due in court today is an international protection applicant residing at a separate facility. According to the Irish Times, he is "the subject of a deportation order since March of this year". Edit: I later learnt that the order itself was issued in May to vacate by July.

While this raises questions previously highlighted about security protocols in and in the vicinity of Citywest and other centres, it also raises questions for Tusla, According to the Irish Independent the girl "was in the care of the agency since February but 'absconded from staff whilst on a planned recreational trip with staff in the city centre' over the weekend."

At this time my thoughts are with the girl and her family. However for now we need to let the Gardaí carry out their investigations and for due process to be followed. Newstalk said: “Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses who were in the Citywest Drive, Garter Lane, Citywest Luas Stop, or Saggart Luas Stop areas between 11:00pm on Sunday and 1:30am on Monday to come forward.”

I will be chasing this matter up further once full information is available.

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6th October 2025 - Replies to Parliamentary questions on behalf of residents

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if the use of facilities (details supplied) for beneficiaries of temporary protection complies with the standards and obligations set out under Council Directive 2001/55/EC (the Temporary Protection Directive); if his Department has reported to the European Commission on these standards; if he will publish any such reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50815/25]

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration continues to work as part of the whole-of-Government response to the war in Ukraine with a focus on providing access to emergency temporary accommodation to those fleeing the conflict who request it, in line with Government policy. This supports the people in question to make longer term independent arrangements.

Council Directive 2001/55/EC (the Temporary Protection Directive) is an emergency provision designed to quickly and humanely respond to the mass displacement of persons. It requires, among other things, that eligible applicants are supplied with necessary and accessible documentation and information on additional supports.

I am advised by my officials that the use of the facilities to which the Deputy refers is of a high standard and complies with our obligations under the Temporary Protection Directive. The Directive in question does not set out any standards with regard to such facilities or reporting obligations with regard to such properties.

The Deputy may wish to note that under the Directive, there are reporting requirements to the Commission with regard to “data concerning the number of persons enjoying temporary protection and full information on the national laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the implementation of temporary protection.”

My Department regularly reports on the numbers of persons granted temporary protection. Weekly statistical reports are provided at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-justice-home-affairs-and-migration/publications/accommodation-of-beneficiaries-of-temporary-protection-botps/.

11 taken together

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to list the community groups, elected representatives, NGOs or other stakeholders with whom his Department’s community engagement team has met regarding the use of a hotel (details supplied) for international protection accommodation, the dates of such engagements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the monthly occupancy figures since December 2021 for hotels (details supplied) including average and maximum occupancy, categories of residents, services provided and the total costs paid by the State for their use; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of submissions received in response to the May 2024 expression of interest process for international protection accommodation; if hotels (details supplied) were included in such submissions; the general locations of properties proposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if the current service agreements governing hotels (details supplied) include requirements for compliance with planning permission, fire safety and building control legislation; if such compliance documents have been furnished to and inspected by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department has carried out any timelines, assessments or consultations relating to making the use of a hotel (details supplied) for international protection accommodation permanent; the intended use of the associated land included in the State purchase; if the Government will confirm whether any additional buildings or modular housing will be developed on that land; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if any value-for-money assessments or independent evaluations were undertaken in respect of the State’s purchase of facilities (details supplied); if he will publish the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department has carried out assessments of the impact of facilities (details supplied) on local services, including schools, healthcare and transport; if such assessments will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the inspections which have been carried out by independent bodies such as fire services, local authorities or HIQA in respect of facilities (details supplied); if the findings will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to outline the Garda vetting and training requirements for staff working in facilities (details supplied) under State contract; if audits have been carried out to ensure compliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the legal basis on which the use of facilities (details supplied) for International Protection accommodation proceeded without planning permission or an exemption being sought from South Dublin County Council; whether his Department accepts this sets a precedent for future developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if the contracts governing the operation of facilities (details supplied) were entered into under emergency procurement provisions; whether he considers it legally justifiable to continue to rely on such emergency measures more than three years after the facility first came into use; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

I propose to take Questions Nos. 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135 and 137 together.

The State purchase of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre for international protection accommodation is now completed.

The purchase of the site is a key part of the Government’s strategy to develop a stable and sustainable accommodation system for people seeking international protection. State-owned centres are part of the Government’s long-term plan to reduce the reliance on private accommodation providers resulting in better value for money of public funds and a more efficient international protection system.

The full purchase price for the Citywest centre (including VAT) was €148,253,530 which is in line with the Government decision of 17 June 2025. Compared to the costs of the previous leasing model, the savings to the State will pay back the purchase price within 4 years. The State is estimated to save €1 billion over 25 years, compared to the current model for leasing the site, while also delivering a permanent State asset.

The Department carried out a number of surveys including technical, mechanical and fire safety for the site as part of a detailed due diligence process followed to secure this purchase.

A 12-month transitional service agreement has been put in place with the current provider to oversee the management and provision of accommodation services for both the main hotel and the convention centre. The existing workforce has been maintained under the transitional agreement. Over the coming 12 months a process to tender for a provider to run the Citywest complex will be completed.

The Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre has successfully supported accommodation and decision-processing by the State for a number of years, and currently provides capacity for 2,300 people, with both international protection applicants and people from Ukraine resident in the Hotel and Convention Centre. There are no plans in place to increase capacity at the site.

The Department does not routinely publish occupancy figures for accommodation centres, for privacy and security reasons, and also because occupancy levels vary from day to day for operational reasons.

In terms of planning permission, this is an existing accommodation centre for people seeking international protection and for people fleeing the war in Ukraine who are Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection which is deemed an exempted development under the Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 4) Regulations (S.I. 605 of 2022).

The Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 4) Regulations (S.I. 605 of 2022) were introduced to assist the State in meeting Ireland’s legal obligation to provide accommodation to international protection applicants.

As a hotel and convention centre, the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre’s change of use is permitted as exempt development under the provisions of Class 20F of the Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 4) Regulations (S.I. 605 of 2022).

The Regulations 2023 (S.I. 376 of 2023) extended the planning exemption provided by S.I. 605 of 2022, from 31 December 2024 to 31 December 2028.

In terms of other potential purchases, an Expression of Interest (EOI) process was launched in 2024 for the sourcing of suitable properties for acquisition or lease. 134 submissions have been received. These options are being assessed.

IPAS centres are subject to rigorous inspection and oversight. Centres are contractually obligated to be maintained to National Standards, with independent inspection and quality control through either the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) or IPAS-commissioned inspections.

IPAS accommodation centres are staffed by accommodation providers who employ managers and staff working in centres. Centre management is responsible for ensuring that appropriate vetting is in place for various centres and staff, and for providing assurance to IPAS and the Department that this is in place.

Contracts for international protection accommodation are treated as confidential and commercially sensitive, but details of all payments to accommodation providers are published regularly on gov.ie at IPAS Statistics/Facts and Figures.

The Community Engagement Team was established at the end of 2023. In line with commitments in the Programme for Government, since the purchase of the site was confirmed, the Community Engagement Team has been engaging broadly with local stakeholders, including members of the Community Integration Forum in South Dublin County Council.

The Department is committed to ensuring that the local community has access to accurate information and that structures to plan for provision of essential and support services, such as healthcare and education, are in place to assist with the integration process.

Since 19 June 2025, the Community Engagement Team has held 8 engagement meetings with stakeholders and provided 7 information notes to local elected representatives.

A dedicated webpage to support the community to keep them informed of developments has been published at www.gov.ie/citywest and is updated regularly

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24h September - PQs submitted on behalf of residents

Edit 5th October: Replies removed below as questions now answered.

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26th August- Government confirms purchase of Citywest

The Department has confirmed that the sale of Citywest has now been finalised. A “briefing note” is to issue shortly which is append to this post below..

This announcement comes as no surprise, despite opposition, except that it took so long to process. All the operational issues still remain and will be raised again when the Dáil resumes.

Statement:

“The Community Engagement Team wishes to confirm that the purchase of Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre, is complete, in line with the approval given by Government on 17th June. The purchase is part of the long-term strategy to develop a sustainable accommodation system for people seeking international protection, using more State-owned land and fewer commercial providers. The purchase of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre, which is part of the implementation of the Comprehensive Accommodation Strategy, allows the State to increase our State-owned accommodation, while saving significant public funds as we move from leasing to ownership

“The Community Engagement Team can confirm that the scope of the purchase is as we shared with you on 19th June and published on www.gov.ie/citywest.

“It is expected that the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan will bring a memo to Government on 2nd September which will include further details.

Engagement Next Steps

”In line with the commitments in the Programme for Government, the purchase of this site comes with a strong commitment to engagement with the local community. The Community Engagement Team is implementing a communications and engagement plan based on the objectives of informing and engaging. The plan includes a commitment to co-design community engagement with the Local Authority and local elected representatives. The engagement process is ensuring that the Department listens to the issues that have been identified at local level, to best support planning for essential supports and services that will assist with the integration process.

Information Resources

“The Department is committed to ensuring that the local community has access to accurate information. The dedicated webpage Gov.ie/citywest is being maintained as a source of trusted information for the local community and general public. The webpage will be updated to confirm that the purchase is complete on 2 September.

“Printed information materials sharing factual and trusted information will be delivered to homes within the Saggart and Rathcoole areas within the coming weeks.

“The Community Engagement Team continues to respond to queries from local community stakeholders through the dedicated mailbox CommunityEngagement@justice.ie.

Engagements

“The Community Engagement Team has met with local elected representatives, community and residents’ associations and the Community Integration Forum. The team remains available to meet with local community groups as requested.

In this post purchase phase, the focus of engagement will be on the structures to plan for the provision of essential services and supports to assist with the integration process.

During week ending 5th September, the Community Engagement Team will schedule a meeting with local elected representatives to discuss the engagement approach.”

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25th July - Department Report following "Community Engagement" meetings

Posting for information purposes only as groups/individuals listed below can account for themselves...

"Since our last update on 30/06, the Community Engagement Team met a number of stakeholders including;

Local Councillors from the relevant Area Committees on 1 July
South Dublin County Council’s Community Integration Forum on 8 July
The Chairs of the two Area Committees and the Mayor on 10 July
Representatives of South Dublin Volunteer Centre on 10 July
Representatives of local resident and associations and sporting organisations on 16 July.

"We will schedule a series of meetings with other community stakeholders over the coming weeks.

To keep you informed and to get our inputs on the community engagement process, Eibhlin Byrne, National Lead on Civic Engagement is available to meet you in person or virtually or to take a call"

The detailed report from the meeting with local Cllrs is in the attached PDF if anyone wants to have a look:

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17th July - Follow up question on deportation issue submitted

"To ask the Minister for Justice, given that the Citywest convention centre accommodates male International Protection applicants on a transit and deportation order basis; and given his reply to me recently that “while some people currently resident in this facility, or in other IPAS accommodation centres, may be the subject of a deportation order, it is not the case that they are being detained in those locations or those facilities”, to outline how, if they are not being detained, community safety is safeguarded in terms of such individuals constituting a flight risk and potentially using force to evade detection; and if a statement can be made on the matter."

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8th July - PQ replies on deportation order residents at Citywest

* To ask the Minister for Justice; Home Affairs and Migration if part of a hotel complex (details supplied) is now a holding and detention centre for those awaiting deportation; if a coherent policy in terms of whether those awaiting deportation at IPAS centres are allowed to roam free or are they locked into a hotel room 24-hours-a-day; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

- Paul Nicholas Gogarty T.D.

For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 8 July, 2025.* To ask the Minister for Justice; Home Affairs and Migration if IPAS detainees being held pre-deportation or pending prison transfer can legally be held in hotels (details supplied) given that this is not purely accommodation, rather quasi-detention and likely falls outside the “hotel emergency reception” exemption and would be considered unauthorised development unless retrospective planning permission is granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

- Paul Nicholas Gogarty T.D.

For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 8 July, 2025.* To ask the Minister for Justice; Home Affairs and Migration the public consultation on safety and security protocols, or impact assessments that has been completed for deportation order recipients to be accommodated at hotel IPAS centres; what is planned in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

- Paul Nicholas Gogarty T.D.

For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 8 July, 2025.

REPLY

I am fully committed to ensuring that Ireland’s immigration system is robust and rules based. The enforcement aspects of our laws, including deportation orders, are an essential requirement for the system to work effectively and to ensure that there is confidence in the application of our legislation in this area.

The enforcement of deportation orders, and the detention of people prior to their removal, is an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau. A person who is the subject of a deportation order may be detained under Section 5 of the Immigration Act 1999 for up to 56 days for the purpose of ensuring their deportation from the State. An application to extend this period of detention must be made to the District Court.

The prescribed places of detention for this purpose are contained in the Immigration Act 1999 (Deportation) Regulations 2005 and are: Castlerea Prison, Cloverhill Prison, Cork Prison, Limerick Prison, Midlands Prison, Mountjoy Prison, and Wheatfield Prison, as well as all Garda Síochána stations. In practice, not all of these locations are in regualar use for this purpose.The State is currently leasing the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre as a transit hub and accommodation centre for Ukrainian citizens and people seeking international protection. Government recently provided approval for the State to purchase the site and continue its use for this purpose.This site is not a prescribed place of detention under the Immigration Act 1999 (Deportation) Regulations 2005. While some people currently resident in this facility, or in other IPAS accommodation centres, may be the subject of a deportation order, it is not the case that they are being detained in those locations or those facilities. The purpose of IPAS centres remains to provide accommodation to people who have entered Ireland seeking protection.

I have had some information from a resident regarding Tusla responses which further confirm that residents with deportation orders are accommodated at the facility. As such I will table a follow up question to seek clarity if they are not being "detained".

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2nd July - Highlighting queries raised by residents regarding potential use of Citywest for Deportation Orders

I have raised follow up parliamentary questions also.

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26th June - Meeting held between Ministers and TD

Minister Jim O’Callaghan and Minister of State Colm Brophy arranged a briefing for local TDs last night. It was originally scheduled for 5:30pm but moved to a later time that I couldn’t make so my Parliamentary Assistant attended instead. Why could this not have been held BEFORE a decision and included local resident groups?

From their report, there was nothing new that I hadnt seen or heard before in official responses. A commitment again given to keep leisure centre and gym open and a reiteration that the purchase is to save money and that no additional capacity is planned. It’s worth pointing out, however that written responses say only that nothing is currently planned, not never planned, and that IPAS capacity will increase as the Ukrainian population decreases.

The Minister also referred to a willingness to engage with established groups. What I gathered from that myself was the likes of SVRA and Rathcoole Community Council. The newer, organically growing resident group is unlikely to figure in any such discussions as an entity, as it does not appear to have a committee per se as of yet. I am open to correction on this but if that is still the case, my advice is to form one with Chair, Secretary, Treasurer etc and demand to be formally included in any consultation process, flawed as it may be.

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24th June - Replies to PQs

QUESTION

* To ask the Minister for Justice; Home Affairs and Migration the measures that will be in place to deter misinformation being spread in relation to the Citywest hotel complex through regular updates and factual responses that provide adequate and meaningful information; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

- Paul Nicholas Gogarty T.D.