Ireland’s Asylum Housing Bill Hits €2.38B As IPAS Beds Surge; Prison Costs €99K Per Inmate Amid 120% Capacity

Ireland’s Public Accounts Committee heard that International Protection accommodation spending is estimated at €2.38B for 2024, with average nightly costs of €71 and IPAS bed capacity expanding from 7,000 to 27,000 in two years. Nearly €1B has been paid to third‑party providers, with €230M concentrated among seven firms and 17 contracts terminated for non‑compliance. In parallel, the Irish Prison Service reported operating at almost 120% capacity, with per‑inmate annual costs rising to €99,072 and total IPS expenditure at €501M. Lawmakers raised procurement transparency and oversight concerns as arrivals and accommodation pressures continue.