Tensions Rise in Dublin’s Liberties Amid Anti-Immigration Protests Near Refugee Centre
Dublin – Tensions have escalated in the Liberties area of Dublin following ongoing anti-immigration protests near a refugee accommodation centre, leading to clashes and concerns from local residents and parents.
The controversy centres around a picket organised by the anti-immigration group Say No, positioned on Basin View Lane, which is adjacent to three schools. Parents have lodged complaints alleging that protestors have racially abused children and their families during school drop-off and pick-up times. In response, Gardaí have maintained a presence in the area over the past two days to manage the situation and prevent further disturbances.
The dispute revolves around a building on Basin View Lane, formerly a commercial warehouse, that is being considered for conversion into a facility managed by the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS). The building, owned by Coolbridge Ltd, a property development company headed by Mr. Heavey, is adjacent to another property that has been housing international protection applicants for the past three years without incident. That site currently accommodates 20 residents.
While local residents have expressed frustration over long-standing neglect in the area, many have condemned the recent rise in hostility, particularly incidents involving children. “While everyone has the right to protest, threatening school children and their parents crosses a line,” said one resident. Supporters of the refugee centre, including advocacy group Dublin 8 For All, have called for civility and community unity, emphasising that protests should not compromise the safety and dignity of neighbours.
Tensions flared when protestors and counter-protestors confronted each other near the schools, prompting Garda intervention. Those supporting the accommodation centre argue that the actions of the protest group do not reflect the views of the broader community.
Housing insecurity remains a major concern in the Liberties and wider Dublin city centre. In February, Dublin City Council unveiled plans to demolish the ageing Basin Street Flats and construct 171 new apartments as part of a broader regeneration project. Some community members suspect the controversy over the IPAS centre may be linked to broader development and housing tensions in the area.
The Department of Justice’s Community Engagement Team has acknowledged that the building in question is being considered for use by IPAS, though a final decision has not yet been made.
Local councillors have expressed support for the refugee centre, noting that no complaints had been raised during the three years of its operation next door. Advocacy groups argue that frustrations related to homelessness, rising living costs, and housing shortages should be directed toward policymakers in government rather than vulnerable groups or community-based services.
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