Councillors furnished with details on proposed Mayo refuge centres

The chief executive of Mayo County Council has responded to a number of queries by elected members of the authority in respect of three properties where new refuge centres are reportedly proposed.

Kevin Kelly outlined: "In respect of Castlemacgarrett House, Claremorris, it is not clear what if, any works, have been carried out at the property as it has not yet been accessed.

"During a recent visit the gates to Castlemacgarrett were closed with no entry signs in place and the driveway did not have the appearance of regular use by construction traffic.

"The reputed owners are being contacted to provide access to the property but, depending on the detailed information, there may be works undertaken under an exemption that would not be actionable.

"It is understood that this property has been recently offered for the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees within the buildings.

"It would appear that the planning exemption that is available to assist in the accommodation of refugees is available in respect of a protected structure as there does not appear to be any specific limitation or exclusion provided for.

"Once further and definitive detail is acquired on what is proposed and what works, if any , have been carried out, full consideration of the applicability of the relevant planning exemption can be undertaken.

"In respect of the former Eircom building at Convent Road, Claremorris, it is understood that this property has been recently offered as accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.

"In respect of the N5 Business Park, Castlebar, there has been some suggestion, including on social media, that a further building, has been offered and/or is being advanced for refugee accommodation but there is no information available in this regard.

"The elected members will be aware that any contractual arrangements in respect of the provision of accommodation are between the relevant property owner and the Department of Integration or IPAS as appropriate and further information is not available in respect of same," he added.