The largest hotel in Drogheda, County Louth is to close its doors to the public in order to house hundreds of migrants claiming asylum.
The four star D Hotel on Marsh Road in, which says it is a 30 minute drive from Dublin will offer its 111 hotel rooms to as many as 500 international protection applicants from next month.
Deputy Mayor of Drogheda Kevin Callan has expressed unease at the decision saying it would have a “massive impact” on Droheda’s economy.
Speaking on LMFM he said, “My understanding from the communications that we’ve received today is that this is done and this will be hundreds of beds made available for international protection applicants.”
“So effectively my understanding from what I’ve seen today for the first time is that the hotel will cease to be a hotel and will be switched to provide this service,’ he added.
The Deputy Mayor continued, “It’s absolutely incredible that this has happened on this scale, and as I say it will have a massive impact on the economy and on the local jobs and businesses of our town
“And the minister must get up and act and do something about it now,” he added.
The decision did not contain any element of public consultation with relevant authorities learning of the news through a briefing document.
“All relevant State support services in your area have been informed of this and they are preparing what additional supports will be needed to assist these people settle in to the local community. This includes the departments of Health, Education, Justice, HSE, An Garda Síochana, the Local Government Management Agency, the local integration teams and local development office in your area.” it said.
The document continues, “Ireland is legally required under EU law to provide accommodation for people seeking international protection here.”
“As we are sure you are aware, this is a nationwide urgent situation and emergency centres, such as this one have been opened in all parts of the country. All counties in Ireland are providing help and assistance with this. There have been over 190 accommodation locations utilised since January 2022 across 26 counties. These options must be considered to prevent homelessness for people with their families and children arriving seeking international protection,” it said.