LATEST: Government release statement on housing asylum seekers in Dundrum House Hotel

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has released a statement regarding the move for Dundrum House Hotel to be used as a centre for International Protection Applicants to be housed.

This morning, buses carrying IPAS applicants landed on the grounds of the Dundrum House Hotel.

Outside the gate, many of the protestors, who have been protesting outside the gates of the hotel for several weeks, gathered in an attempt to prevent the move from happening.

A spokesperson for the Department said: "Dundrum House is currently used for accommodation for people who are Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection due to the Ukraine War. The location has a maximum capacity of 277 people.

"As Government works urgently to find accommodation for people seeking International Protection, and people from Ukraine move on to alternative accommodation, we have arranged to use some vacancies arising at this location to accommodate people seeking International Protection. As part of this process, approximately 80 people seeking international protection are now accommodated at Dundrum House Hotel.

"There is no intention to increase the capacity or overall numbers accommodated at this site, regardless of the process under which they are accommodated in Ireland.

"The Department will keep local representatives and media informed of any changes in arrangements at this site when they are confirmed.

"The Community Engagement Team has been established to engage directly with elected representatives, relevant Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, and other entities and individuals. The purpose of the team is to improve the flow of information regarding arrivals into areas and to help equip local communities with the accurate information required to help them understand the current situation and to assist with the welcome and integration process for new arrivals.

"The Community Engagement Team issued a full briefing note to all local elected representatives, the Local Authority and the Local Development Company on 29 May. The briefing note included details on the capacity and resident profile at the accommodation centre. Representatives of the CET have ongoing engagement with local stakeholders including a meeting local Councillors on 5 June and a meeting with local stakeholders, convened by the Local Authority on 22 July."