Fears Grow The Avon In Blessington Could Be Used As IPAS Accommodation Centre

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has called on the Minister for Justice to immediately scrap any idea to use the Avon Hotel in Blessington as an IPAS centre.

Deputy Brady was informed by officials that due to a reduction in demand for accomodation for Ukranians the Avon will cease to be offered for accommodation to Ukrainians seeking temporary protection.

The hotel has been offered to be used to provide accommodation for international protection applicants under a lease agreement of up to two years and this is being examined by the Department.

“I have been informed that due to the reduced demand to provide accommodation to Ukrainians and that the owners have expressed an interest in providing ongoing services to IPAS.” said Deputy Brady.

“Only last month, the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan gave a clear commitment that hotels currently housing Ukrainian refugees would return to tourism use once vacated. This decision now flies in the face of that commitment, leaving the government’s word in tatters.

“This decision has been made without any consultation, local engagement, or consideration for the long-term economic damage it will cause. It is yet another example of a government completely out of touch with communities on the ground.

The decision to remove the hotel from tourism use for another two years will have serious and lasting consequences for the local economy and jobs. It cannot be allowed to proceed.”