Concerns of local community over International Protection families shared by Mayo TD
Dara Calleary TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation said he has spoken directly with the Minister of Integration, Minister Roderic O'Gorman in relation to the issue and he has outlined the many concerns. Pic Paul Sharp/SHARPPIX
A Mayo TD has said he shares the concern of the community in relation to plans to provide 120 beds for for International Protection Applicants at a Ballina hotel.
The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth confirmed on Thursday the beds are to be provided for for the families in the Twin Trees Hotel on the Downhill Road.
The Western People has seen official correspondence from the Department’s Community Engagement Team confirming the news.
Fianna Fáil Minister Dara Calleary stated he has outlined the concerns of local people.
"There is huge concern in Ballina around the proposals made to IPAS (International Protection Accommodation Services) regarding the accommodation of International Protection Applicants at the Twin Trees Hotel," he said. "I share those concerns."
The local TD said he can "absolutely appreciate and understand people's genuine concerns about this" and he is continuing to work on the matter.
"I have spoken on several occasions this week, directly with the Minister in charge of the Department of Integration, Minister Roderic O'Gorman, in relation to the issue and I have outlined the many concerns expressed to me by the people of the town, and the factors in respect of the unsuitability of this proposal," he added.
The Department has said that intended accommodation within the hotel is for 120 people in 33 bedrooms and this accommodation will be for families of international protection applicants.
They said that the agreement does not include all 68 of the hotel’s bedrooms and therefore, it will still be trading for private guests to book rooms.
Meanwhile, a protest is due to take place this evening at 7pm outside the hotel.
