Nolan welcomes Department statement on Belmont units

Independent TD Carol Nolan has said that she welcomes confirmation from the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration that the modular units in Belmont are not being examined for International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) purposes.

SEE OFFALY INDEPENDENT STORY ON DEPARTMENT RESPONSE HERE

However, Deputy Nolan said that questions still remain about the purpose of the development.

“I contacted the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration immediately after meeting the Belmont residents’ committee earlier this week. I asked the Department to confirm whether the modular units were connected to any IPAS related proposal, whether any offer of accommodation had been made, and whether the site was under consideration.

"The Department has now confirmed that no offer of accommodation has been received and that the location is not being examined for use. This is an important clarification for residents who were understandably concerned about the possibility of an IPAS linked development.”

Deputy Nolan then reiterated her view that despite this clarification, the situation remains unsatisfactory

“People deserve to know who is behind this activity, what the intended use of the units is, and whether further development is planned.”

“I can absolutely assure the entire community that I will always have their back on this issue and that I will continue to seek answers to any questions that the community may raise regarding the modular units and their purpose.”