Department of Integration refuses to confirm use of Claremorris building for refugee accommodation

THE Department of Integration has refused to confirm if a property in Claremorris will accommodate Ukrainian refugees. 

The owner of the building recently issued a statement saying they were intending to redevelop the property for housing.

Claremorris Ballindine Says No (CBSN) recently gathered outside the property to oppose it being used to house refugees. 

The meeting was addressed by local Independent representative Cllr Richard Finn and Aontú local election candidate Paul Lawless.

In January, Kevin Kelly, Chief Executive of Mayo County Council, issued a statement saying it was ‘understood’ that the building had been offered as accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.

In response to a query from The Mayo News, the Department of Integration said it ‘can only confirm use of a premises once a contract has been signed, and will, in the first instance, inform local public representatives and statutory agencies through its Community Engagement Team’.

Sean Cleary, the owner of the premises, said that he originally intended to develop it as a language school but said this was ‘no longer a viable option’.

Extra security, including fencing, security cameras and an alarm have been installed at the building. 

“While this is a very versatile building and lends itself to many commercial/office uses, the desire is to renovate the structure to a residential apartment development and potentially a small housing development,” Mr Cleary commented on a CBSN Facebook post.

“I believe this will enhance the streetscape and provide some living accommodation in a very desirable location.

“Racism and targeting of foreigners is an unacceptable behaviour, and needs to be called out! Likewise posting outlandish fake news behind a mask is unacceptable!”

The Mayo News has contacted Mayo County Council for a statement on the matter.