Three Kilkenny buildings mooted as accommodation for those seeking refuge from other countries have not yet been cleared for such a purpose.
It has been suggested that the long vacant Heather Court Hotel in Ballyragget as well as a section of the former St Joseph’s Industrial School / Orphanage property on the Waterford Road in the city are to house people who are under international protection.
The Integration Dept in a reply to KCLR News says regarding both that they can only confirm use of a premises once a contract has been signed, and will, in the first instance, inform local public representatives and statutory agencies through its Community Engagement Team.
While in the case of a former Equestrian and conference centre at Wallslough, which had been offered for people from Ukraine, it seems outstanding works and regulatory issues remain to be resolved before the Department can contract for the accommodation.
