Irish Detainee Condemns ICE Facility as ‘Concentration Camp’
An Irish man detained in a Texas ICE facility has described his experience as akin to a “modern-day concentration camp.” Seamus Culleton, originally from County Kilkenny, Ireland, has been held in detention for nearly five months despite having a valid work permit and being in the process of obtaining a green card.
Detention Conditions in Texas
Culleton’s interview revealed alarming conditions within the facility where he is being held. He noted that detainees live in temporary tents, with each tent capable of accommodating around a thousand individuals. There are five such tents in the facility.
During the interview, conducted by Kieran Cuddihy on RTÉ’s Liveline, Culleton explained the lack of outdoor access. “I’ve been locked in the same room now for four and a half months. I could probably count on both hands the amount of times I’ve been outside,” he said. He also highlighted the appalling hygiene conditions, claiming the toilets and showers are rarely cleaned.
Food Scarcity and Health Issues
- Culleton described receiving only three small meals a day, leading to widespread hunger among detainees.
- He mentioned competition for food, stating that some staff show preference to certain individuals, making it hard for others to get extra portions.
- “Everybody’s hungry, everybody’s tired,” he remarked, emphasizing the physical toll the situation takes on detainees.
Concerns for Safety
Culleton expressed serious concerns for his safety, suggesting that violence from security staff is a real threat. “People are being killed by the staff here,” he asserted, underscoring a pervasive sense of fear among detainees. He described the environment as unpredictable, which adds to the psychological strain of his detention.
Pressure and Family Impact
During his stay, Culleton alleged that ICE officers pressured him to sign deportation papers, which he firmly refused. “It’s just torture. I don’t know how much more I can take,” he lamented.
His wife, Tiffany, expressed her distress over the situation. She noted the anxiety she experienced after his detention, fearing he might have been deported. “He’s a good man. No one deserves this, and Seamus definitely doesn’t deserve it,” she stated. Although family visits are allowed, she indicated that arranging them is often exceedingly difficult.
Government Response
The case has garnered attention at a diplomatic level. Culleton has appealed to Taoiseach Micheál Martin to address his situation directly with President Donald Trump during their upcoming meeting. Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that they are engaging with U.S. authorities on his behalf.
As the situation develops, advocates continue to call for improved conditions and transparency regarding the treatment of detainees in ICE facilities.
