2263. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if a contract (details supplied) for IPAS accommodation will be renewed; if there has been engagement with the property owners in terms of its future use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60768/26]

Providing reception conditions, including accommodation and other basic supports, to international protection applicants is a requirement of Irish and EU law.

There are currently 298 IPAS Accommodation Centres located around the country, with over 32,000 residents.?

The Department has a contract in place to provide accommodation seeking international protection at this location, which is due to expire in March 2027. This location was previously used to provide accommodation to people fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Details of individual contractual processes are treated as confidential and commercially sensitive while they are ongoing.

With respect to potential for contract renewals, the provision of accommodation for international protection applicants is demand-led, which remains high, and each premises is considered on a case-by-case basis to decide if the contract will be renewed as it approaches its end date.

At potential renewal stage, consideration will be given to the current and projected demand for accommodation, the provider's performance under contract, and compliance with standards and legal obligations.