In the High Court this afternoon, Justice Emily Farrell ordered the complete closure of the large IPAS centre at Lissywollen outside Athlone.
This follows a lengthy legal process that has lasted almost two years. It was initiated by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan and others who had persuaded Westmeath County Council to refuse planning permission under local authority building regulations pertaining to temporary dwellings and structures.
The State had fought at every stage, relying on deferrals to allow the publication and passing of new legislation to override any existing regulations including the emergency measures which have facilitated such exemptions despite any objections including from local authorities.
Justice Farrell has granted the State another four months to clear the site with the potential for the promised legislation to be brought forward which is unlikely to appear after two years.
Meanwhile, the State’s effective capitulation has been signalled over the past week or so as all temporary tented accommodation has been removed.
Today undoubtedly represents a significant victory for Westmeath and poses a huge challenge to the State’s emergency accommodation plans.