Plans for emergency accommodation centre on Mayo island confirmed

A MEMBER of Mayo County Council has confirmed that a total 38 men will be availing of the proposed emergency accommodation in Keel, Achill.

Local Councillor Paul McNamara said 20 will arrive on Wednesday with the remaining 18 will arrive the following week. Their ages range between early 20s to 50s.

He said the Reception and Integration Agency could not confirm the nationality.

In a statement, he continued: “In regards to how they will be transported over the duration of their stay, I was informed there is a private contract in place with a bus driver.

“At present the Achill Head Hotel will provide emergency accommodation for three months. The Reception and Integration Agency also stated they will work closely with the HSE.

“It is then the job of the HSE to inform local GPs in the area. However, this is not the case as I have confirmed with local GPs that they were not made aware of an influx of 38 people to the area.

“I will provide a further update when I receive a reply from Minister David Staunton or from the Reception and Integration Agency regarding a meeting with the people of Achill.

"If I do not receive a follow-up email I, along with representatives from the community, are prepared to travel to Dublin to meet with officials from yhe Department of Justice or representatives from The Reception and Integration Agency."