Minister Joe O’Brien has given assurances that the plan to house 74 male asylum seekers in a Hostel in Cashel is not going ahead today as originally communicated on Thursday November 2nd.
Approximately 100 people protested on John Street, Cashel last evening – some on site since 11am. Intensive communication yesterday involving several public representatives from Tipperary and the Taoiseach, Minister Roderick O’Gorman and Minster Joe O’Brien led to a decision to review the plan and late yesterday evening confirmation that the plan was being paused for re-evaluation.
In the interim the fire and planning officers from Tipperary County Council are to inspect the building today.
Minister Browne spoke to Deputy Mattie McGrath, Liam Browne and Deputy Martin Browne by phone as they stood on John Street last evening. Cllr Burgess also attended the protest on John Street yesterday.
Liam Browne the community activist that called Sunday’s Public Meeting is extending thanks to the public for their support.
Mr Browne is to be put in contact with Department officials so that future consultation can take place as the property may yet be used to house asylum seekers.
Mr Liam Bowne is inviting anyone interested in joining a committee to make contact and is to establish a dedicated Facebook page for this purpose.
Deputy Mattie McGrath is to raise the issue in the Dáil this afternoon with Minister O’Gorman and hopes to get a clear statement from the Government on the Dáil record.
Cllr Declan Burgess says his direct engagement with the Taoiseach led to a pause on the plan to use the hostel for 74 asylum seekers and says the Department repeats that it was unaware that the facility is used by Tipperary County Council as an emergency accommodation provider.
Deputy McGrath is deeply critical as regards the abrupt announcement and lack of consultation with the community and local public representatives and also wants the Housing Minister to issue a comprehensive statement outlining plans to accommodate homeless individuals in South Tipperary.
Cashel TD Martin Browne voiced similar concerns about the handling of the issue by the Department which he says reveals the chaotic approach taken by the Government to providing accommodation for Irish people, refugees and asylum seekers.
