First Ukrainian refugees move into former Offaly convent

THE first group of Ukrainian refugees have moved into the former Convent of Mercy building in Kilcormac.

About 25 people in family groups, mostly women and children, arrived on Wednesday in line with a plan announced by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth recently.

Further arrivals in the coming days are expected to bring the number to 40 and the department has said the total capacity is 58.

The accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine follows claims last week that men from African countries would be moved to the former convent.

Two protests took place in Kilcormac at the weekend but comments made in speeches on the street, and online beforehand, were widely condemned.