‘Detailed’ objection to IPAS centre in Mayo town in the works
In a joint statement, community groups in Ballyhaunis are coordinating efforts to respond to planning application ahead of December deadline
Community leaders in Ballyhaunis have issued a joint statement outlining their response to a proposed International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre in the town.
As was exclusively reported by The Mayo News last week, planning permission is being sought for the construction of 32 accommodation units in the Old Convent Accommodation Centre in Ballyhaunis.
The statement, released by Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce and local community representatives, confirms that a detailed submission objecting to the planning application by Bridgestock Care Limited is currently being prepared.
The statement comes after heated scenes in Mayo County Council's monthly meeting yesterday.
Anne Cunnane, CEO of Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce, Tom Forde, President of the Chamber, community activist Tomas Murphy, and Councillor Alma Gallagher are working together to coordinate the community response.
According to the statement, the Chamber is collaborating with key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive objection to the proposed development. Once completed, the submission will be made available to all Ballyhaunis residents to sign before the planning deadline of December 4th, 2025.
The community leaders emphasised Ballyhaunis's established reputation for integration and social cohesion. "Ballyhaunis has a proud and proven track record of harmonious integration and community cohesion. We are determined to continue in that spirit," the statement reads.
The group also stressed the importance of respecting current IPAS centre residents. "The privacy, dignity, and respect of those currently residing in the existing IPAS Centre — who are valued members of our community — must be fully upheld at this time," they said.
In a significant development, the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration has confirmed to the community representatives that Bridgestock Care Limited has not sought a state accommodation contract, nor has any such request been received by the department.
The statement notes that the proposal remains at the planning stage and confirmed they are continuing to monitor developments closely in the interests of Ballyhaunis and its residents.