A reception centre at Shannon Airport for refugees fleeing Ukraine isn’t currently on the cards.
In response to a parliamentary question from Clare Independent TD Michael Mc Namara, the Justice Minister says around 85 per cent of Ukranian refugees have arrived into Dublin, with Shannon currently accounting for about 4 per cent of all arrivals.
A reception centre is currently in place in Dublin, with Department of Justice officials visiting state provided accommodation to provide documentation to people entering the country elsewhere, including Shannon.
Arrangements are now being put in place, however, for additional facilities in Cork and a third Support Centre will open shortly in Limerick, which is intended to serve the Midwest area.
Almost 1,000 people who’ve fled the war-torn country are being accommodated in Clare, with Ukrainian pupils enrolling in primary and secondary schools here this week.
The Clare Immigrant Support Centre has been echoing calls for a centre at Shannon Airport, and wants an additional support hub in Ennis.
Co-Ordinator of Services, Orla Ní Éilí insists that due to the anticipated arrival of more refugees here in the coming weeks, long-term support facilities should be provided in this county.
