Modular units in Offaly community 'not for IPAS use' says Department

The Department of Justice said today that modular units which were recently moved into the High Street area of Belmont in Offaly are not being planned for use by the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS).

The Offaly Independent contacted the Department in response to concerns expressed by some about the possible use of the modular units to accommodate international protection applicants.

A response we received from a Department spokesperson this afternoon (Friday) stated: "IPAS has received no offer of accommodation in respect of these units and is not considering them for the purposes of accommodating people seeking international protection."

On Tuesday of this week more than 100 people attended a public meeting in the area at which concerns were expressed over the arrival of the modular units.

Independent Offaly TD Carol Nolan also issued a press statement on Wednesday in which she referred to "fears of IPAS‑linked development" in Belmont.

“Modular units have been transported into a quiet area with absolutely no explanation from the authorities. Residents are worried, and understandably so, that this may be the early stages of an IPAS‑linked development,” Deputy Nolan said in her statement on Wednesday.