Tuam Councillors Oppose Asylum Seeker Centre Over Child Safety Concerns

Local councillors in Tuam have expressed strong opposition to plans for transforming a former hotel into a centre for asylum seekers, citing concerns over child safeguarding. The discussions took place during a recent meeting, where councillors emphasized the need for clarity regarding the safety measures for children who may be housed at the facility.

Cllr Donagh Killilea criticized the lack of transparency from relevant government departments, labeling it as “very disappointing.” He stated, “No matter where children are – in the protection of the State or their own parents – we should be doing anything we can to protect them.” He recalled discussions from eight months prior, noting that similar concerns were raised when Ukrainian residents were temporarily accommodated in the same building.

Cllr Shaun Cunniffe echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the absence of concrete information regarding child safeguarding protocols. He remarked, “We wanted to know exactly what the child safeguarding arrangements were. We were promised detail on that, and it still hasn’t come.” Cllr Cunniffe emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of children, stating that the lack of follow-through is “poor.”

Cllr Andrew Reddington supported the call for clearer communication, admitting that the issue has been weighing heavily on his mind. The councillors are seeking detailed assurances from the Department of Justice regarding the operational specifics of the proposed IPAS accommodation centre.

Galway County Council’s Role in Oversight

During the meeting, Director of Services Michael Owens clarified that Galway County Council does not oversee the day-to-day operations of the centre, which lies “directly between the property owner and the Department.” He noted that the council’s integration team is actively engaging with local residents and agencies but reiterated that operational control rests outside their jurisdiction.

Cllr Cunniffe further questioned the turnover of residents as asylum applications progress, expressing renewed frustration about the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the future use of the building. “There has to be some part of a Government plan. The town needs the hotel back,” he insisted.

Cllr Karey McHugh-Farag highlighted the collective responsibility of elected representatives, stating, “People see us as local leaders. We should be using our channels of communication to lean on those in positions who can make a difference, that children are safeguarded to the utmost.”

The ongoing dialogue among Tuam councillors underscores the critical importance of child safeguarding in the context of housing asylum seekers. As discussions continue, local leaders are advocating for greater transparency and accountability from government bodies to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in their community.