Tag Archives: Magowna House

    RESIDENTS from Inch and Kilmaley have vowed to continue a road blockade near a new asylum-seeker centre in their locality. As the peaceful demonstration outside Magowna House enters its fourth day, it looks like protesters are determined to continue manning the approach road to the hotel on a rota basis to try and stop the arrival of more asylum-seekers. Integration Minister Roderick O’Gorman told Clare Oireachtas members on Wednesday he has no plans to close the new controversial asylum-seeker centre near Inch, which has prompted a road blockade from frustrated local residents. During an online meeting with Clare Dáil deputies and senators, Minister O’Gorman said he would not close the centre due to pressures on the government’s reception and integration system. The Minister’s stance has been criticised by householders who feel “let down” by the comments he made to Clare Oireachtas members. A statement on behalf of the protestors was read out at the entrance to Magowna House …

THE lack of transport, a public footpath, recreational and other facilities near a hotel in Inch make it unsuitable to accommodate  asylum-seekers, local residents have claimed. A variety of concerns were raised with Clare County Council officials at a meeting with residents from Inch and Kilmaley on Tuesday morning following the arrival of 34 international protection applicants on Monday night. The refugees were greeted with what locals say was a “peaceful protest” on approach roads leading to Magowna House on Monday night. Residents vented their frustration during the meeting in the council chamber with the Department of Integration over the lack of any consultation with them before the international protection applicants were accommodated in three self-catering cottages. Householders claimed the Magowna House Hotel and complex is not a suitable place for refugees as “there is nothing for them to do” during the day in the absence of any public transport. Council chief executive officer, Pat Dowling pledged the council would …