No more tents here… The refugees were transferred by force; Government
Dublin: A complex array of protests has emerged in response to the government’s decision to relocate refugees by dismantling a temporary camp near the International Protection Office (IPO) on Mount Street. The operation saw the displacement of 290 individuals residing in tents, who were subsequently relocated to facilities in Citywest and Crooksling through a collaborative effort involving various agencies.
Citywest and Crooksling were designated as alternative accommodations, with 186 individuals settling in Citywest and 99 in Crooksling. However, none of the relocated individuals received immediate permission to stay, with authorities indicating that their information has been collected for future updates.
The operation, conducted jointly by Dublin City Council, the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS), and the Garda, involved the use of machinery to remove tents. Subsequent efforts included street cleaning, the installation of footpath fencing, and the placement of metal barricades outside the IPO.
To facilitate the operation, traffic was restricted between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. The Crooksling site offers essential amenities such as showers, health services, food provisions, access to Dublin city centre, and round-the-clock security for refugees.
Prime Minister Simon Harris commended the collaborative efforts of the involved agencies in clearing Mount Street, affirming that no further tent encampments will be permitted. Deputy Prime Minister Micheal Martin echoed this sentiment, emphasising the prohibition of additional tents on Mount Street.
Integration Minister Gorman noted that all individuals previously residing in makeshift accommodations on Mount Street have been successfully relocated. Labour leader Ivana Bacik expressed support for the government’s initiative to ensure the safe relocation of those residing in tents.
The Mount Street refugee encampment had been associated with significant waste management challenges and lacked essential facilities. Open defecation in the city centre exacerbated sanitation concerns, leading to pervasive odours in the area.
Previously, on March 16, tents were removed from Mount Street, and individuals were evacuated. However, some refugees returned, citing inadequate facilities at Crooksling.
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