First arrivals at Flax Mill House IPAS accommodation

As the first of the International Protection applicants moved into Flax Mill House in Navan this week, local residents have expressed concern about the lack of infrastructure, play facilities for children and car parking.

Residents have also appealed that there be no protests following the decision by the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) to house up to 70 asylum seekers in the building.

A new residents association has been formed in Mill Lane. “Our biggest concern is the lack of infrastructure and parking,” said chairman, Justin Hughes.

“There is no infrastructure and parking is a huge problem. One lady said she has to sit for an hour in her car to get a parking space and there is a private clamping company going around putting up signs,” he said.

Deputy Peadar Tóibín said that he had been informed that eight of the International Protection Applicants have already moved in the building.

“Most people I spoke with pleaded that there would be no gatherings or protests on the lane and I agree with them.

“I texted residents to inform them that people had moved in and received a message back to say that they wished them luck.”

Cllr Alan Lawes said that he would be contacting the new residents “to see if I can assist with anything. And if I can, I will.”

“Just like I helped the Ukrainians when they arrived and the way I help homeless Irish people,” he said.

Cllr Lawes also appealed that there be no protests and expressed concern at the rise of racist attacks in the country, including the burning of 18 different locations earmarked for IPAS accommodation. “It is lucky nobody has been killed”.

“You have protesters shouting about housing the Irish first, but where were they when the ‘raise the roof’ protests were taking place, or when I was sleeping in my van outside the council offices until a homeless couple were housed,” he asked.

Cllr Lawes also appealed that there be no protests at the location.