The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that “there is no justification for violence, arson or vandalism in our Republic. Ever”.
In a statement released to RTE, Varadkar said:
“I am deeply concerned about recent reports of suspected criminal damage at a number of properties around the country which have been earmarked for accommodating those seeking international protection here, including in County Galway last night.
“Even with robust border controls, extra checks at airports, faster processing times and record numbers of refusals, like much of the world we are dealing with a major step-change in the numbers arriving here, seeking protection. This is driven by war, poverty, climate change and human rights abuses in their home countries.
“I want to assure people we have a rules-based system and are processing applications in record time. All asylum-seekers are registered, fingerprinted, checked against watch lists, and the circumstances surrounding their request for asylum are examined thoroughly. We aim to treat them with dignity and respect while their applications are considered.”
Meanwhile, gardai have launched an investigation following a blaze that damaged a facility earmarked to house asylum seekers.
The Ross Lake House hotel in Rosscahill, Co. Galway, went up in flames on Saturday night.
The hotel, which has been closed for some time, had been selected to house 70 asylum seekers, much to the dismay of the local community who protested migrants being placed there.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact Clifden Garda Station on 095 225 000, the garda confidential line on 1800 66-61-11, or any garda station.
FIGHTING BACK! The Irish have risen! 🇮🇪
The government doesn’t listen but maybe they’ll pay attention?
Ross Lake Hotel, where 70 migrants were due to be housed, went up in blaze of glory during the night.
The community repeatedly said they didn’t want unvetted males being planted… pic.twitter.com/BH5rqbLdq8— TheLiberal.ie (@TheLiberal_ie) December 17, 2023
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.