Greens welcome new Birr asylum seekers
Ekaterina Koneva, incoming Green Party Local Area Representative for Birr, together with Minister Pippa Hackett, welcome the latest International Protection Applicants to be accommodated in Offaly.
Emmet House Guesthouse, Birr, is to be used for International Protection Applicants. The Guesthouse has a capacity for 20 people in 7 rooms and is to accommodate families and couples.
Commenting on the update, Ekaterina Koneva, who is the incoming Green Party Local Area Representative for Birr, said: “People seeking International Protection are welcome in Birr. I have first-hand experience of moving to a new country and know how lonely it can be at the start. I understand that those coming to Emmet House are primarily new arrivals. The community of Birr has a background in helping newcomers to integrate and to feel at home. I’m confident these families will receive the same welcome.”
Green Party Minister, Pippa Hackett, added: “I welcome the information provided by the International Protection Accommodation Service regarding the contract, which is initially for 12 months. This includes assurances of high standards of accommodation, privacy and services for the families. And I very much welcome the opportunities provided for the new comers to become involved in their communities and locality.”
Continuing, she said “Emmet House is centrally located with access to buses, shops and other services, the ETB will offer English language classes where needed, and International Protection applicants can take up employment after 6 months. With thanks to schools in the locality for their flexibility, children will attend school where I hope they make friends, begin to feel secure and be part of a community which values them.”
Ekaterina said “I will work with Minister Hackett’s office to support the new arrivals in any way I can. My background and current experience is of working to support Ukrainian refugees and in providing training on job skills, starting a business or returning to study. I am aware of the challenges that can arise but also of the huge potential new comers offer their new communities.”
“I know that the International Protection Accommodation Service works with a number of organisations who provide support to residents in the form of clinics, and there is a Government funded confidential helpline to assist with any queries a resident may have.”
Minister Hackett concluded “ I am committed to working with Ekaterina to assist the positive integration of International Protection applicants into the community. My office is also available to answer questions. I want to send a welcome to the families, and wish them happiness and fulfilment during their time in Birr. I also want to thank the people of Birr for opening their hearts to those seeking International Protection, something we have a proud history of doing in this country.”