This research project, commissioned in 2023, investigated the experiences of LGBTI+ people seeking international protection in Ireland, and set out recommendations to ensure that Ireland meets its obligations to provide accommodation and supports in a manner that provides dignity to those seeking help.

This research project demonstrated through legal research and focus groups with members of the LGBTI+ community seeking international protection in Ireland, that specific considerations are needed to ensure that the Irish state meets its obligations to provide accommodation and other supports in a manner that affords dignity to members of the LGBTI+ community seeking international protection here. These considerations relate to specific health supports for trans and non-binary people, respect for privacy, communications and standards aimed at eliminating discrimination based on gender or sexual identity, training for relevant staff and the process for making complaints for those who experience homophobia or transphobia. The recommendations that we provided address these considerations and, crucially, were developed based on the suggestions of LGBTI+ people seeking international protection who are currently living in accommodation provided by the Irish state.

Recommendations included, amongst others:

Own-door accommodation which guarantees the requisite minimum level of privacy to ensure an LGBTI+ resident feels safe must be introduced as a matter of urgency.

House Rules to be updated to include statements that discrimination and harassment of LGBTI+ individuals are not accepted in accommodation centres, nor anywhere in Ireland; and public statements relating to this should be visible in all centres.

The availability of a dedicated support worker within IPAS for LGBTI+ residents would create the opportunity for residents in all centres to feel seen and supported.

– Survey Respondent