“Bizarre” conflicting information provided on Mayo refugee situation
Aontu Cllr Paul Lawless has braded the situation "bizarre."
Aontú Cllr Paul Lawless has branded as “bizarre” conflicting information he has received on accommodation for refugees in the couny.
“The Government is either being ‘economical with the truth’ around new accommodation provision across Mayo for Ukrainian refugees or genuinely has no clue as to what is going on,” said Cllr Lawless.
“In recent days I have got confirmation from Mayo County Council that there are a number of new buildings being considered for Ukrainian refugees. These include:
“Belmont Hotel in Knock to accommodate 150 people. In Claremorris both Castlemcgarrett which is set to accommodate 300 people and 12 further modular units in Kilcolman Road Claremorris are under consideration. In Ballyhaunis 50 modular units are under consideration at the moment to accommodate circa 180 people. Moreover 20 modular homes are currently under consideration in Turlough to accommodate circa 72 people,” he added.
He said despite high numbers of Ukrainians leaving the country in recent months, the Government insists these buildings will be used for Ukrainian nationals.
“The Department continues to sign more and more letters of intent for Ukrainian nationals, yet we know that the numbers of people coming to Ireland from Ukraine are falling. Nevertheless, the Government maintains these buildings will be used for Ukrainian nationals.
“Meanwhile, I received an email from the Department stating a number of accommodation contracts have been terminated due to the reduction in demand. For example, according to the Department the International Hostel in Knock which was used to accommodate Ukrainian Nationals is no longer needed. It's totally bizarre," said Cllr Lawless.
He said public confidence is shattered.
“It’s clear that this Government’s mishandling of the entire immigration issue continues. The Government has no handle on the immigration numbers in Mayo.
According to the Department the demand for Ukrainian accommodation centres is falling. Yet 10 further projects / buildings with a capacity to house a total of 870 people are being advanced. It’s time for the Government to be honest with the people regarding the proposed centres," he added.
