Roderic O’Gorman on Roscrea: ‘We must take accommodation where we can’
Integration Minister Roderic O’Gorman has said an increase in asylum seekers means the Government must “take accommodation where we can find it”.
2024 has begun with protests emerging across the country against the use of properties in local areas to house asylum seekers.
Most recently, protestors in Roscrea, Co Tipperary, have criticised plans to house 160 families seeking international protection in the Racket Hall hotel.
Mr O’Gorman told The Anton Savage Show housing female asylum seekers and families is a top priority for the Government.
“We have seen an increase in the number of female and family applicants over the last number of weeks – we’re under real pressure here,” he said.
“That’s why accommodation in Roscrea will be used for families.
“We’ve had to take accommodation where we can find it because of the significant need and increase in demand both in terms of Ukrainians and international protection applicants.”
Mr O’Gorman said he sympathises with concerns that the only hotel in Roscrea will now solely be used as accommodation for asylum seekers.
“I completely understand [when] a hotel in a town has its use changed, it as an impact,” he said.
“That’s why it’s important we are able to better plan where we locate accommodation.
“The approach we have taken is a reactive approach.
Credit to : Newstalk