An Irish man with legal permission to perform in the United States has described conditions at a Texas ICE detention facility as a “modern-day concentration camp,” detailing widespread illness and competition for food after nearly five months in detention.
Details of Detention
Seamus Culleton, a resident of the U.S. For almost 20 years and a citizen of County Kilkenny, Ireland, was detained by ICE agents in September 2025. He has a valid work permit and was in the process of applying for a green card. Despite having no criminal record, he was apprehended after being stopped while driving home from work.
Culleton is currently held at a detention facility in El Paso, Texas. In an interview with RTÉ’s Liveline, he described being locked in the “same room” for four and a half months with limited access to fresh air or sunshine.
Conditions Described
Culleton detailed “filthy” conditions, including unsanitary toilets and showers that are “very rarely cleaned.” He also described receiving “very, very small meals, kid-sized meals,” leading to widespread hunger among detainees. He stated there is “absolutely” competition for food, with staff allegedly showing preference to certain individuals.
Culleton also stated he fears for his life, alleging that detainees have been killed by security staff and that riots are a possibility. He reported that ICE officers attempted to pressure him into signing deportation papers, which he refused.
Diplomatic Implications
Culleton is appealing to Taoiseach Micheál Martin, the Irish prime minister, to raise his case with President Donald Trump during their scheduled meeting in March. Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed it is engaging with U.S. Authorities “at a senior level” regarding the case. His wife, Tiffany, a U.S. Citizen, expressed concern after being left unaware of his whereabouts for days following his detention, and noted that arranging visits is “almost impossible.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Seamus Culleton been detained?
Seamus Culleton has been detained for nearly five months, since September 2025.
Where is Seamus Culleton being held?
Seamus Culleton is being held at a detention facility in El Paso, Texas.
What is Seamus Culleton’s immigration status?
Seamus Culleton has a valid work permit and was in the process of applying for a green card when he was detained.
What steps will be taken next in this case remain uncertain, but could involve further legal challenges to his detention, diplomatic pressure from the Irish government, or a resolution through the U.S. Immigration system.
