IPAS centre in Waterford set to close as Department decides not to renew contract
The Department of Justice has decided not to extend its IPAS contract at Atlantic House in Tramore, County Waterford
An International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centre in County Waterford is set to close after the Department of Justice decided against renewing its contract at the location.
The Department has decided not to extend its IPAS contract at Atlantic House, Railway Square, Tramore.
The building is currently home to 76 international protection applicants, all of whom will have to be relocated.
In a statement to Waterford Live, the Department of Justice said such contracts are often not renewed for a number of reasons.
However, it did not give a specific reason for the decision not to extend the contract at Atlantic House.
A Department spokesperson said: “The Department of Justice has decided not to renew the contract at Atlantic House, Railway Square, Tramore, Co. Waterford, X91 HX86, an accommodation centre for people seeking international protection.
“Contracts for IPAS accommodation can be terminated or not renewed for various reasons including when a provider chooses to end a contract or compliance concerns exist, or rates cannot be agreed.
“All centre residents who require continued State-funded accommodation will be relocated to another centre.”
They went on to acknowledge the difficulties and disruption that the decision will cause to residents at the centre.
“We appreciate that relocating can be very disruptive for people.
“IPAS is in contact with residents and centre management to keep them informed of relocation plans and to offer support.
“While IPAS recognises that people may be integrating into the community, attending education or working, given the dispersed nature of our available accommodation options, new accommodation may not be available in the same area.”
Members of Waterford City and County Council were informed of the decision in an email circulated on Tuesday.