There are over 32,000 IPAs nationally.
The number of International Protection Applicants living in the midlands is on the rise.
As of the end of January, just over 2,000 IPAs are currently being accommodated in Laois, Offaly and Westmeath, a rise of 2% on the month previous.
Westmeath is currently hosting at 1,043 international protection applicants.
There are 481 In Laois, and 490 in Offaly.
Nationally, there are over 32,000 IPAs, over 9,000 of which are children.