Audit Bombshell: 19 Of 20 IPAS Asylum Sites Lacked Ownership Proof—Minister Says Fixes In Place

The Comptroller and Auditor General audited a sample of 20 IPAS asylum accommodation centres and found widespread non-compliance with departmental criteria, including that 19 of 20 centres could not provide proof of ownership or lease and many lacked contracts, planning permission, or fire safety certificates. The audit also documented major disparities in nightly payments and gaps in due diligence, insurance, and company registrations. Independent TD Carol Nolan pressed the Minister for Justice for the names of contractors without ownership proof; Minister Jim O’Callaghan said new systems and five recommendations have been implemented and that evidence has since been provided for properties remaining in the system. Nolan dismissed the response as proof of systemic profiteering and political cowardice and highlighted ongoing opacity over beneficial ownership of some contracting companies registered offshore. The article underscores local councillors’ and campaigners’ concerns about planning irregularities and inconsistent enforcement despite official assurances.