Everyone in Ireland's international protection system has the right to healthcare — including free GP visits, hospital care, and prescription medicines.
Under Regulation 18 of the Reception Conditions Regulations 2018, you have the right to:
If you live in Direct Provision and have a medical card, you do not pay prescription charges. Normally medical card holders pay a small charge per item, but this is waived for IPAS residents.
You have the right to an interpreter for GP and hospital appointments. Ask when booking. Do not let anyone tell you to 'bring a friend' instead. Professional interpretation is your right and ensures accuracy.
Living in the protection system can be stressful, lonely, and frightening. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You have the right to mental health support, and it will not affect your asylum application.
Your GP can refer you to counselling, psychiatry, or psychology services. This is free with your medical card.
Free national mental health helpline. Available 24/7. You can also text 50808.
For survivors of torture and severe trauma. Therapy, rehabilitation, and medico-legal support.
Some centres have on-site counselling. Ask your centre manager or welfare officer what mental health services are available.
What you tell your doctor is private. Your GP cannot share your medical information with IPAS, the International Protection Office, or the Department of Justice without your consent — except in very rare situations where there is a serious risk to life. Seeking mental health support will not negatively affect your asylum claim.
When you first arrive in Ireland, you are offered voluntary health screening at the reception centre. This checks for:
This screening is voluntary and confidential. The results do not affect your asylum application.
Good sleep is essential. If noise, temperature, or room conditions are affecting your sleep, document it and raise it with your centre manager. Poor sleep affects mental and physical health.
If you have dietary needs (religious, medical, allergies), tell your centre manager. Centres are required to cater for dietary requirements.
Physical activity reduces stress. Walking, stretching, or any exercise you enjoy helps. Many centres have outdoor space — use it if you can.
Isolation harms health. Connect with others in your centre, local community groups, or support organisations. Clare Immigrant Support Centre runs outreach to Clare Lodge.
You have the right to access sexual health services, maternity care, and family planning. These services are confidential and free with your medical card.
Children in IPAS are entitled to the same health services as all children in Ireland: public health nurse visits, developmental checks, school health screenings, vaccinations, and specialist referrals. Ensure your children are registered with a GP.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or drugs, HSE addiction services are free and confidential. Your GP can refer you, or contact the HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline: 1800 459 459.