'Deeply disappointed' over renewal of IPAS contract for Louth hotel

Louth Senator Alison Comyn says she is "deeply disappoined" over the extension of the D Hotel's IPAS contract.

Deputy Comyn said: "Having engaged extensively with the Department of Justice over recent months regarding the proposed renewal of the contract for the use of the D Hotel in Drogheda as an IPAS reception centre, I am deeply disappointed that the Department has decided to proceed with a renewal of the contract for use as an IPAS reception and accommodation facility.

"This is not the outcome I wanted for Drogheda.

"I made strong and consistent representations at the highest levels of Government, including directly to the Taoiseach, and I was clear throughout that this contract should not be renewed.

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"In my engagement with the Minister and the Department, I outlined in detail the unsuitability of the site as an IPAS centre.

"While I did not seek a shorter extension, but rather no renewal at all, it is clear that the strength of the case I made has had an impact.

"A significantly longer term renewal had been under consideration, and the decision to limit this extension to 12 months reflects the concerns that were raised.

"The focus must now turn to how this situation is managed and what comes next for the town.

"I have made it clear to the Minister for Justice that this cannot simply be imposed on Drogheda. There must be meaningful engagement with the local community, local representatives and businesses throughout this period.

"It is essential that there is full clarity well in advance of the end of this 12 month timeframe. Drogheda cannot be left facing the same uncertainty again.

"While this is not the outcome I fought for, my priority now is to ensure that Drogheda is supported.

"I will continue to engage with the community to ensure that our voices are heard and that there is a clear and responsible plan for what comes next."