166. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether residents at IPAS accommodation are entitled to keep foodstuffs in their room; whether refrigerators privately purchased by IPAS residents are allowed in rooms; if his attention has been drawn to management at an IPAS accommodation (details supplied) that are confiscating privately purchased refrigerators from rooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52261/26]

IPAS Accommodation is provided in a range of different locations and types of accommodation, including both self-catering and catered accommodation.

As per the IPAS House Rules, the use of unauthorised electrical equipment such as fridges in residents’ rooms in some centres is not permitted, because of the significant fire and health and safety risks they pose.

IPAS directs centres, where necessary, to provide a fridge in a shared space or add a secure box to a shared fridge for medicines which may require refrigeration.

Where there are medically mandated dietary requirements, the resident can inform centre management in order for them to provide for this appropriately. While the Department cannot provide information about individual cases, correspondence relating to the details supplied has been received by officials who are giving it attention.

If a person applying for international protection has any concerns in relation to their accommodation, they can also contact IPAS directly via a dedicated helpdesk at ipasinbox@justice.ie.