Supreme Court to Review Appeal Regarding Accommodation for Asylum Seekers
The Irish Human Rights and Equality commission (IHREC) has applied to the Supreme Court seeking permission to appeal a recent Court of Appeal (CoA) decision concerning the accommodation of international protection applicants. This development marks the latest stage in a critical legal battle over the rights and welfare of asylum seekers in Ireland.
Background: The Core of the Dispute
The case centers on whether the State’s failure to provide accommodation to single male international protection applicants constitutes a breach of their basic right to human dignity. IHREC initiated proceedings arguing that leaving applicants homeless created conditions incompatible wiht a life of dignity.
Here’s a breakdown of how the case has unfolded:
* August 2024 – High Court Ruling: The High Court initially sided with IHREC, finding that the State did breach the human right to dignity by failing to provide accommodation.
* July 2025 – Court of Appeal Reversal: The CoA overturned the High Court’s decision,upholding the State’s appeal. The CoA acknowledged the applicants faced extreme material poverty, but steadfast IHREC hadn’t provided sufficient evidence to demonstrate a systemic undermining of their physical or mental health, or a state of degradation.
* Current – Supreme Court Application: IHREC, deeming the issues “meaningful,” has now sought permission from the Supreme Court to further challenge the CoA’s ruling.
What the Court of appeal found
The CoA accepted evidence presented by IHREC detailing the extreme material poverty experienced by 13 applicants. However, the court specifically questioned whether the health issues presented were representative of the broader population of unaccommodated applicants. The judges emphasized the evidence was limited to individual experiences,not a extensive assessment of the group’s overall well-being.
Importantly, the CoA rejected the State’s argument that IHREC lacked standing to bring the case. The court affirmed IHREC’s right, under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, to pursue legal action on behalf of vulnerable groups.
Why This Matters to You
This case has far-reaching implications. it’s not simply about providing shelter; it’s about upholding fundamental human rights and ensuring a humane reception process for those seeking international protection. As Liam Herrick,IHREC’s chief commissioner,pointed out,over 1,300 applicants were without accommodation as of July,and thousands more are experiencing severe hardship.
The Path Forward: Supreme Court Consideration
A panel of Supreme Court judges will now review IHREC’s application.They will assess whether the case raises an issue of general public importance or if an appeal is warranted in the interests of justice.
If the Supreme Court grants permission, a full hearing will be scheduled. This final review could:
* Clarify the State’s obligations regarding accommodation for asylum seekers.
* Define the threshold for proving a breach of the right to human dignity in similar cases.
* Shape the future of international protection policies in Ireland.
Ongoing Concerns & related Developments
The situation remains critical. The UN High Commissioner has recently emphasized the need to maintain standards for supporting asylum seekers, highlighting the international focus on Ireland’s approach.
IHREC remains committed to advocating for the rights of international protection applicants, irrespective of the Supreme Court’s decision. They will continue to monitor the situation and work towards ensuring a fair and dignified process for all.
Resources:
* Irish Times - Asylum Seekers Homeless Appeal
* Irish Times – Homeless Asylum Seekers Dignity Breached
* [Irish Times – UN High commissioner on Asylum Seeker Standards](https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/07/16/standards-for-supporting-asylum-seekers-have
