IPAS capacity in Ballyhaunis remains unchanged – Mayo Minister

Minister addresses community concerns over recent planning application

By Jack Good Published 21st Nov 2025, 14:00 BST Minister of State Alan Dillon (Fine Gael), Paul Lawless TD (Aontú) and Cllr Alma Gallagher (Fine Gael) Minister addresses community concerns over recent planning application Sign up to our Mayo Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Mayo Live within your account.

Minister of State Alan Dillon has moved to allay concerns in Ballyhaunis after addressing queries from residents and public representatives regarding a recent planning application and its potential link to international protection accommodation.

The clarification comes amid ongoing political tensions in Mayo over IPAS accommodation, with Aontú TD Paul Lawless and Aontú Cllr Deirdre Lawless previously clashing with local Fine Gael councillors over claims the town was being "run down."

The Minister confirmed he raised the matter with departmental officials and received a response from Minister Colm Brophy outlining the position of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. The Department's Community Engagement Team confirmed that no new offer of additional capacity has been received, and the Department is not considering any further properties in Ballyhaunis at this time.

Minister Brophy clarified that planning applications are a matter for the local authority and property owners, and do not indicate any intention by the Department to contract a property for IPAS use.

READ MORE: ‘Detailed’ objection to IPAS centre in Mayo town in the works

Minister Dillon stressed the importance of transparency and assured residents that he will continue to engage with Councillor Alma Gallagher, community leaders, and the Department to ensure clear communication on any future proposals.

"I want to reassure the people of Ballyhaunis that no new capacity is being sought at this time," Minister Dillon said. "Planning applications are independent processes and do not automatically signal Departmental involvement."

Related topics: Mayo Ballyhaunis Mayo County Council Sign up to our Mayo Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Mayo Live within your account.