There have been some expressions of anger and disappointment at the news that 160 International Protection Applicants are to be provided accommodation in the Racket Hall Hotel in Roscrea.
The news emerged yesterday when local elected representatives were sent notice by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
Government TD Jackie Cahill says he has stressed to Minister Roderic O’Gorman that the town has an urgent need for additional resources and services to accommodate the additional numbers moving into the town.
The TD hopes that funding can be channelled to Roscrea via the Community Recognition Fund.
Councillor Shane Lee, a Team Lowry Councillor says he “ is shocked to find out that such a large number of people are being relocated to our town without proper consultation and planning.”
Cllr Lee says he has requested details from the Department and has also expressed concerns about the impact the development will have on the community.
The Department says the group will be families seeking Asylum in Ireland. In recent days communities in Ballinrobe and Carlow have successfully protested against the placement of large groups of men in accommodation centres.
Others in Roscrea have expressed concerns about the impact the development will have on the social and cultural life in Roscrea which is now accommodating several hundred additional people via the EU Temporary Protection Directive for Ukrainian Refugees or the International Protection Process for asylum seekers.
A one-year lease has been signed for the facility which is owned and operated by Swiftcastle Roscrea Limited.
The company headquarters are listed as the Quality Hotel Youghal.
In related news it has been confirmed that the former Convent of Mercy in Cahir will not be used to house asylum seekers.
Tipperary Independent TD Mattie McGrath says the Department of Housing are planning to refurbish the building as accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.
