Calls for clarity in relation to the anticipated arrival of asylum seekers to Kilkenny

Local councillors have highlighted the need for informational clarity in relation to the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) and the anticipated arrival of international asylum seekers to Kilkenny.

Mayor David Fitzgerald (FG) raised the issue at today's meeting of Kilkenny County Council, noting that conflicting sources of information are being relayed to officials on the issue.

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Acting CEO of Kilkenny County Council (KCC), Sean McKeown, highlighted that the local authority has 'no formal role' in relation to IPAS.

Director of Services at KCC, Tim Butler, stated that 'the local authority received communication [from The Department of Children, Equality Disability, Integration and Youth] to say that the asylum seekers would arrive last week but they haven’t'.

He added that the local authority has sought further clarity on the matter.

Cllr Eugene McGuinness (NP) told elected members that the 'lack of information makes everybody suspicious'. 

"If the Minister’s office can’t get it right, we’re in trouble," he said.

Mayor Fitzgerald concurred, stating that the Minister 'should be keeping the Chief Executive informed', given the 'seriousness' of the issue.

Cllr Maria Dollard (GP) stated that there is clearly a problem getting information and made the point that 'what we’re looking at is different systems for different people'.

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"If the system that was put in place for Ukrainians was applied to other international asylum seekers it’d be a different situation," she said.

"Certain groups shouldn’t be singled out."