Some 185 asylum seekers to be accommodated at Athlone site during legal challenge

A Government Department has said a total of 185 people are to be accommodated at the controversial new asylum seeker centre in Lissywollen, Athlone, while a High Court challenge over the facility continues.

As we reported yesterday, the High Court has adjourned the legal case being brought on behalf of a group of Athlone councillors until January 27.

Earlier this month, 92 male international protection applicants moved into the newly-developed temporary accommodation in Lissywollen.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth indicated yesterday (Thursday) afternoon that this had since risen to 185 residents, but that there would be no further increase while the legal case was underway.

"While the State does not intend to defend all of the planning issues raised through the court, other matters remain under discussion, and the matter has been adjourned by the High Court until late January 2025," it said.

"The Department will continue to provide 185 people seeking international protection with accommodation at Midlands Accommodation Centre while the legal matters are in progress."

"Works on the site will pause from (today), December 20, and the Department will not increase the number of people accommodated at the site," it added.