BREAKING: Application for IPAS centre in local Tipperary town withdrawn

The planned IPAS centre for Mitchell Street, Thurles will no longer go ahead.

Earlier this week, Tipperary County Councillors and TDs were made aware of plans for a property in Thurles to be turned into a centre for international protection applicants.

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These plans will now no longer go ahead, as the developer has withdrawn their plans for the centre.

Speaking in a post on his social media, Cllr Jim Ryan said: "I have just been notified that Kilbrin Homes Ltd have decided not to go ahead with their plans for an IPAS centre in Mitchell Street in Thurles. I spoke with their representatives yesterday and outlined the concerns of the people of Thurles.

"As of tonight they have now listened to the people of Thurles and common sense has prevailed. WELL DONE TO THE PEOPLE OF THURLES - PEOPLE POWER."

TD Michael Lowry and Cllr Micheál Lowry issued a joint statement on the matter, saying: "When we first learned of an application to accommodate displaced persons seeking international protection at a property located in Mitchel Street, Cllr.
Micheal and myself immediately issued a statement stating clearly that this property was unsuitable for the intended purpose and that we would oppose the proposal.

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"I gave an undertaking to establish the facts and decide on a course of action. Over the past few days I have had extensive interactions with the Minister, Dept Officials and the owner of Kilbrin Homes Ltd. I conveyed the absolute shock and dismay of the numerous people in the area who contacted us about this issue. I outlined a catalogue of valid and legitimate reasons as to why this proposal was unacceptable and should not proceed. I’m pleased to confirm that after these discussions Kilbrin Homes Ltd. have agreed to withdraw their application.

"This property will NOT become an IPAS centre. Glad that our efforts on behalf of the community have been successful."

Following this news, Cllr Ryan also posted on his social media to confirm that the meeting planned to take place next Thursday, March 27, regarding the matter, has been cancelled.