Hundreds sign petition over use of former Limerick bank for refugees

HUNDREDS of people in Askeaton have signed a petition opposing plans to house Ukrainians in the town’s old bank.

Approximately 350 people have urged council to change tack on the plans at the former Bank of Ireland premises in East Square.

They want to see the use for the building remain as a community hub, something which was originally proposed.

That was until a meeting last month saw plans passed to house 22 refugees fleeing war in the landmark building for a period of two years.

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It would then revert to its original use.

Local Fine Gael councillor Adam Teskey, one of those who have signed the petition – which was set up by a local resident – has spoken out against the plans a number of times in meetings.

Confirming the petition, he said: “The key issue is this is about the most iconic centralised building in a town which was originally purchased on the premise it was going to be turned into a community e-hub to facilitate the people of Askeaton in terms of high-access broadband, and the access of much needed space to drive business forward.”

He repeated his call for Ukrainian refugees to be housed in some of the disused council homes across the county.