Senator Frank Feighan has said he will be seeking clarity on a number of issues at a special Ministerial briefing on Wednesday regarding the planned accommodation of Syrian refugees in a former hotel in Ballaghaderreen.
“I have already had a constructive discussion with David Stanton, Minister of State for Justice with special responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration. Minister Stanton is to hold a special briefing with relevant Oireachtas members this Wednesday afternoon in Leinster House where a range of issues of concern will be raised.
“There is no absolutely no question at all that people in Ireland, Roscommon and Ballaghaderreen want to help these families who have been tragically displaced by war.
“We have all seen the horrific images on television where ordinary men, women and children are being killed in the Syrian conflict and the humanitarian case to help these refugee families fleeing from blood-shed is overwhelming. Compassion must be to the forefront as we simply cannot even imagine the horrors that these people have gone through.
“At the same, it is clear that there has been a lack consultation with local public representatives to establish exactly what the plans are and what resources will be available to adequately cater for these refugees.
“As a local public representative, I want to work with the community and all stakeholders to clarify issues of concern which have been raised legitimately by the people of Ballaghaderreen.
“Language support, health services and integration are just some of the issues which need to be addressed in a positive manner and I will be seeking clarity in this regard.”
