Protestors have interfered with the dispatch of prefabricated abodes to a site in Co Westmeath. On Friday morning, lorries transporting 18 of these homes found themselves stalled on the primary throughway in the hamlet of Coole. The entrance to the designated location for the dwellings has also been obstructed by vehicles.
This area is strategically placed adjacent to the Coole Court scheme where approximately 100 foreign applicants for International Protection have resided since the tail-end of the previous year.
When queried about the original site in Parliament the preceding year, Roderic O’Gormac, the Minister for Integration, mentioned the establishment of a Community Engagement Team (CET). Set to be in direct dialogue with local representatives, local authorities, local development establishments and other appropriate stakeholders.
The team’s role, as explained by the minister in October, is to facilitate improved dissemination of information relating to new arrivals in the respective areas. The CET aims to equip the local communities with the necessary knowledge to boost the welcoming and assimilation process of newcomers.
More details will be provided as the story progresses…