Concern in Ballaghaderreen over plans to house Syrian refugees in disused hotel

MEMBERS of Roscommon County Council are meeting in special session today to discuss the use of the former Abbeyfield Hotel in Ballaghaderreen as a reception centre for refugees.

The Department of Justice and Equality has contracted the building under a two-year lease from the owners as an “emergency reception centre” for 80 Syrian refugees.

The refugees, who are due in Ballaghaderreen at the end of the month, are currently resident in refugee camps in Greece and Italy.

Local Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has expressed concern about the inlfux stating that the vacant hotel could potentially cater for 250 – an influx which would be excessive in comparison with the present population of Ballaghaderreen.

Meanwhile, Michael Frain, chairman of Roscommon Leader Partnership, says the lack of consultation by the Department of Justice with the local community and the local agencies is astounding.

While the refugees are very welcome to Ballaghaderreen, the necessary supports for such a large number need to be put in place, Mr. Frain told Midwest Radio.