North Mayo premises not being considered as IPAS centre

A premises in Crossmolina is not under consideration for use as an IPAS centre.

The update in relation to the Dolphin Hotel was relayed by Councillor Michael Loftus at a meeting of Mayo County Council yesterday.

He received confirmation of the property's status from Minister Dara Calleary shortly after the meeting got underway.

Councillor Loftus said he had asked the minister to enquire with the Department of Justice to see if the property was being considered to house international protection applicants, saying there has been a lot of rumour around Crossmolina.

“The property is no longer under consideration,” he confirmed.

The matter has been causing serious rifts in the community, said Councillor Loftus, with individuals going round 'frightening people' for no reason.

The property is being used to provide emergency accommodation for homeless people.

Councillor Loftus has asked council management about providing modular homes for people who find themselves homeless, saying they deserve a bit of respect.

There's a lot we could do better and it's time to think outside the box and start doing things to try and improve the lives of people, he said.