Pause On Blessington Refugee Move Is "Temporary"

Tuesday, 21 January 2025 14:22

By Martin Osborne

The pause has been introduced to facilitate further exploration and consideration of alternative accommodation options for the residents, who rely on State-provided housing.

Similar to the situation in Carlow, a temporary pause has been granted on the planned relocation of Ukrainians from Blessington.

Initially scheduled for today (January 21), these relocations will no longer proceed on the intended date.

The pause has been introduced to facilitate further exploration and consideration of alternative accommodation options for the residents, who rely on State-provided housing.

According to the Department of Integration, the pause will also allow for additional engagement with those affected by the proposed moves.

The current accommodation operates as a hybrid setting, housing both Ukrainian refugees and individuals seeking International Protection.

Authorities have assessed the needs of residents in these settings - encompassing education and medical requirements - and have provisionally identified onward accommodation options.

Efforts are being made to minimise disruption caused by the relocations.

However, the Department acknowledges the challenges inherent in such moves, particularly concerning potential educational disruption.

Kfm recently revealed how the provider, Arturo Ventures in Blessington, had expressed interest in offering accommodation for international protection applicants following the termination of its current arrangement for Ukrainian residents.

In Carlow, just outside Castledermot, up to 150 Ukrainian men, women and children are being moved from their accommodation at a former restaurant known as Toughers after a reprieve of one month.