Mayo hotel issues statement about its future

The manager of the Dolphin Hotel in Crossmolina has said he is "not interested" in turning the hotel into a centre for International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS).

Rumours spread last week that the Dolphin Hotel, purchased by local businessman Pat Mulhern five years ago, was going to be used as an IPAS centre.

The speculation began after a Section 5 planning declaration was published on Mayo County Council’s website seeking permission to use the hotel as an IPAS centre. Section 5 declarations are used in situations where developers feel their developments are exempt from the typical planning process, such as is the case for IPAS centres.

However, hotel manager James McArdle said in a media statement that the hotel is not interested in being used as an IPAS centre.

“These concerns started due to a current planning application which was lodged,” he said. “There is a misbelief that the hotel is becoming an IPAS centre. This option was proposed to us and explored, but we are not interested.” 

“It is also worth mentioning in 2022 we were approached about providing accommodation for Ukrainian refugees. Again, we looked at this option and after consideration we decided it was not for the Dolphin.” 

Mr McArdle said management are looking at all possibilities of developing the hotel but not for IPAS or refugees. He said the hospitality sector is "on its knees" and it is getting harder and harder to run a viable hospitality business.

“The never-ending increases such as the VAT rate, minimum wage increases, food cost inflation, insurance cost, the list is endless. On top of the cost of business rising, we also acknowledge that the cost of living for our loyal customer base is also having an impact.

“With that being said, Pat has always insisted on trying to keep open, give good food and good portions, at a reasonable price. Unfortunately, like so many other businesses, we have had to reduce our opening times and may have to reduce more or may have to change completely.

“It is through people like Pat, the owner of this hotel, that we can provide jobs to local people, support all local clubs and charities, provide jobs and training to students, and give an income to help them pay for college. We look forward to these days again.”