In what is an apparent u-turn the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has said that a former 5 star B&B in north Cork earmarked to house male international protection applicants will now house families instead.
A group of protesters had been keeping a presence outside Abbyville House since late last year when plans to house migrants in the building became known.
A document from the Department regarding Abbyville House says “It is intended that 56 people in need of shelter will be accommodated at the premises shortly,”noting that “While initially earmarked for adult males, there is now an acute shortage of accommodation for families and it is intended to place families and children into this property shortly.”
The department notes that there are now almost 190 such accommodation centres active in 26 counties with figures of those having arrived seeking international protection in Ireland at 60-per-week as of the 12th of February last.
Echo News reported that the St. Joseph’s centre in Fermoy is currently accommodating up to 130 people seeking international protection.
The department noted that the property is owned by and operated by Drakeford Limited and has on-site security round the clock and that the “sister company of the owner has extensive experience in the provision of accommodation centres for IPAS.”
The department says that those accommodated in the centre will be provided with PPSN numbers and will be eligible to work six months after arriving in Ireland.
“Most of the residents will be new arrivals. Many who have found work are making a positive contribution to the local and national economies, particularly in areas where there are skills shortages.” it said adding that, “Any IP applicant residing in IPAS accommodation is entitled to a medical card.”